Heritage expert slams latest Christchurch demolition…

Cranmer Courts falls under preservationist spotlight as post-quake demolition continues.

Demolition of another landmark heritage building in Christchurch begins in a few days.

The loss of the historic Cranmer Courts would be an unmitigated disaster for Christchurch, says University of Canterbury expert Associate Professor Ian Lochhead.

Demolition of the building will resume within a week, the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority says.

CERA’s modus operandi in demanding demolitions of buildings has come under increasing criticism, with various experts contrasting its actions with those of civil authorities overseas who are committed to preserving older properties, even if it takes several years.

Dr Lochhead says the building was mooted for sale to a company that would have restored it but the sale fell through.

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