City development

Press, 27 January 1988, Page 16

City development

Sir, —After reading the letters (January 22) of W. A. Sutton and Robin Pawsey, I believe that two

cities is the only solution to Christchurch’s development problems. Those with the negative reactionary attitude of Robin Pawsey could live in “Museum City” and positive-thinking, innovative people like W. A. Sutton could live in “Progress City.” The two cities could be separated by two walls along Worcester Street: a low mud and flax one on the south side and a high fibre-glass one on the north side. The “splitting of the city,” which would take place very close to Lord Rutherford’s den, would be a historic occasion. Robin Pawsey would ceremoniously lay foundation sods from a wheelbarrow and W. A. Sutton would use a helicopter to place fibreglass foundations. Future visitors to the Victoria Square tower would have a panoramic view of both cities, the “great walls of Canterbury” and see a locally made video entitled “A Tale of Two Cities.”—Yours, etc., J. K. MOIR. January 24, 1988.

Sir, —A few years ago Christchurch architects demonstrated their awareness of environment by condemning the plans for the new law courts. These were consequently redesigned to be more worthy of the superb site. The city planner should consider the building now occupied by the

City Council and its officers. Erected 50 years ago, it was totally out of keeping with everything else in the city. Its historic importance is now widely recognised, but it might not have qualified had the proposed regulations been in force. Some recent buildings utilising historic motifs are courteous to their neighbours and brighten up the cityscape; but these were designed by choice ,for specific locations, not under a compulsory blanket coverage. To act as the architect thinks fit is the best procedure. Enforcement of style by regulation is to stifle creativity and has no place in our society. The present codes are adequate for preserving good civic manners. — Yours, etc., W. A. SUTTON. January 25, 1988.