Preserving the best of the past

Press, 12 April 1978, Page 16

Preserving the best of the past

Now’ that the restoration of two early Christchurch landmarks, the Canterbury Provincial Buildings and the Diamond Jubilee clock tower in Victoria Street, is approaching completion, residents and visitors can see that the structures are in a respectable and sound condition. Work on the Provincial Buildings started more than six years ago when the Government and local bodies together allocated $lOO,OOO for the renovation. Since then further funds have been proxided as required from Government and local sources. The progress of the work has aroused the enthusiasm of local groups, such as the Canterbury Pilgrims and Early Settlers’ Association, which have provided money for the work and guides for tours through the buildings.

Restoration of the clock tower — originally intended to be erected by the Provincial Buildings — has been financed without recourse to Government funds. The City Council took the

initiative in this project and launched an imaginative appeal for gifts of labour and materials. The Canterbury Master Painters’ Guild and at least a dozen Christchurch firms responded generously. The restored clock tower is probably more splendid than it has ever been in a chequered existence, and it now has the new embellishment of chimes. The Provincial Buildings and the clock tower, so painstakingly restored, will continue to be admired by local and visiting people with an interest in early Christchurch. They should never again be allowed to deteriorate to the stage at which major expenditure is required to save them from decay or demolition. Local authorities, voluntary organisations, and private individuals should be inspired by the recent efforts to contribute regularly, and generously, to the maintenance of these two outstanding relics of the Victorian era.