New P.O. building in Hereford St?

Press, 9 May 1980, Page 4

New P.O. building in Hereford St?

The Post Office plans to build a six-storey telephone exchange building in Hereford Street, next to the new Phoenix Assurance Company block.

The proposal" could mean the demolition of two existing office buildings and possibly the historic Shands Emporium. The, Post. Office has asked the _ Christchurch City Council to designate the site for the proposed exchange.

A central location with room for long-term development was needed for the new exchange, the council’s town-planning committee was told yesterday. The other two buildings on the site are the Wentworth Building and Avon

Chambers. A Post Office statement acknowledged that Shands Emporium was listed in the City Scheme Review as having architectural and historical merit.

Although the building was not catagorised for preservation by the Crown or the council, the Post Office would take into account the possibility of preserving it “if at all possible.” Submissions and object 3 ions to the required designation will close on May 30. The council has also been asked to designate land at 35 Chester Street for a Children and Young Persons Court and a Small Claims Court.

The Justice Department has told the council the site is needed until new courts are ready early next year in Durham Street.