Business Leaders Optimistic About Central City Governance

Media Statement for Immediate Release Wednesday April 18 2012

Business Leaders Optimistic About New Central City Governance

A group of Christchurch business leaders are welcoming this morning’s announcement regarding the formation of the Christchurch Central Development Unit.

Canterbury Business Leaders Group (CBLG) spokesman Dr Don Elder says the formation of the unit was a necessary, pragmatic and sensible step.

“This is a very positive step forward for the central city and an opportunity to be bold. The fact that the development unit will be responsible for development within the Four Avenues means that they will be able to fast track progress. The development of the blueprint for recovery within the next 100 days is a clear indicator of this.

“As we have said many times, the successful recovery of the city will rely on a number of organisations working together, and may include options such as Public Private Partnerships [PPPs].

“We’re very pleased to hear that everything is up for discussion and that the new unit will ensure these options are investigated and considered.”

Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce (CECC) chief executive Peter Townsend agreed that this was a good sign for the future of the recovery.

“It’s reassuring to know that there will be clarity around anchor projects such as the convention centre.

“We have one opportunity to create an iconic city, and we now have a way to do this. The business community is committed to playing its role and working in partnership with the unit,” says Townsend.

ENDS

About Canterbury Business Leaders Group (CBLG)
CBLG formed in February 2011 as an immediate response to the February 22 earthquake. Organisations represented within CBLG come from industries as diverse as dairy, education, telecommunications, mining and professional services.

About Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce (CECC)
The Canterbury Employers' Chamber of Commerce is the largest membership-driven, not-for-profit business support organisation with approximately 3,000 members. CECC’s primary role is to assist members' enterprises to be as successful as possible, with the ultimate objective of ensuring that greater Canterbury becomes the most desired place in New Zealand in which to live and do business.

© Scoop Media