City tower

Press, 14 March 1987, Page 20

City tower

Sir, —Friends of mine who have visited Christchurch from overseas have always identified one feature of the city as memorable and enjoyable — its open spaces around the central area. Cranmer, Latimer, and Victoria Squares, as well as the river banks, provide a welcome contrast to the buildings and streets for all who work and live here. They should be recognised as assets for residents and tourists, and not regarded as leftover spaces after office blocks, hotels and towers have been crammed in. The council’s approved plan for Victoria Square made that acknowledgement, and provided for active and passive use of the area by the public. The developers of the tower complex should seek a more appropriate site (perhaps Hagley Parlor near the Estu-

ary), where the height of the tower can be fully enhanced by spacious surroundings, rather than overshadowing a relatively small and precious open space.— Yours, etc., JUDITH ROPERLINDSAY. Rangiora, March 8, 1987.