City tower

Press, 5 March 1987, Page 20

City tower

Sir, — A monument on the scale of the proposed tourist tower, but not of its unoriginal commercial design could add to the attractions of Christchurch. An appropriate monument should be unique and capable of becoming a world-wide recognised symbol; and be aesthetically consistent with our classical English, or innovative modern, architectures. Since the structure will dominate our skyline, the design’s theme should be planned through public input. It should be designed in an architectural competition and selected by a public panel. As an outfitting port for Antarctica, we could have a “Gateway to Antarctica” tower or arch, or a “Garden City Flower Tower” or “Hay Stack” (to honour Sir Hamish). An interesting monument will have commercial value. More than just using it, tourists will come here to see it. If there is to be a tower, let it be a distinctive architectural addition to Christchurch. — Yours, etc.,

MICHAEL MAUTNER. February 27, 1987.

Sir,—So confident am I that the usual staid, joyless Christchurch “Don’t-do-it” attitude will prevail, and the tower will never get off the ground, that I have promised to shout my 12 workmates morning tea for a week if it does.—Yours, etc.,

RICHARD BARRETT. February 28, 1987.