3pm Fire Cordon Update

CORDONS

The cordons at the corner of Early Valley Road and Old Tai Tapu Road and at the corner of Osterholts Road and Old Tai Tapu Road have been lifted.

The lifting of these cordons and the earlier lifting of the cordon at the corner of Cashmere Road and Penruddock Rise (accessible only from the east), means there are now no cordons on Old Tai Tapu Road and that much of Westmorland has now reopened, allowing more than 1400 people (Census data for residents) to return to their homes.

The lifting of remaining cordons is a high priority for emergency services and we still hope to lift further cordons this afternoon.

A map showing current cordons is available online at www.tfc.govt.nz.

Cordons can be lifted only after full risk assessments have been completed. This work includes expert assessment of the fire hazard, the danger posed by damaged structures, environmental hazards such as asbestos, and geotechnical hazards caused by the loss of vegetation.

ACCESS TO PROPERTIES SEVERELY DAMAGED OR DESTROYED INSIDE REMAINING CORDONS

Agencies are working together to develop a process for residents whose homes have suffered severe or total damage and remain cordoned to register their contact details.

People can call the Christchurch City Council contact centre on 941 8999. Online registration will also be available.

People will be asked to provide their contact details, the address of their damaged property and the reason they need to return.

If their property is considered safe to visit, a time will be arranged for them to be taken in behind the cordon to visit their property for a short time, accompanied by a police officer and a fire officer.

Visits will be prioritised according to urgency, based on the need to collect essential items such as medical supplies, to retrieve or provide care for pets or livestock, or to collect items essential for work or study.
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