975 days ago

City leaders 'gravely concerned' for Christchurch library rebuild

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

From reporter Tina Law:

One of Christchurch's most popular libraries is at risk of being rebuilt as a “substandard facility” that will fail to meet the needs of its community, some city leaders fear.

There is a $2.5 million shortfall to rebuild South Library in Beckenham and with no extra money currently in the Christchurch City Council’s budget, councillors and community board members are worried the project will be scaled back.

They are urging the public to make a submission to the council’s draft annual plan, before submissions close at 11.59pm on Monday, to ensure more money is put in the budget.

Waihoro Spreydon-Cashmere-Heathcote Community Board chairperson Callum Ward​ told the council at its meeting last week that the board was “gravely concerned” about the project.

“Unless we adjust the budget now to meet the actual needs of the facility, the scope of this project will be eroded to the point where we will deliver a substandard facility that will fail to meet the needs of the community.”

Ward said the library, which was also a service centre, was one of the most well-used in the city and had a higher book turnover than Tūranga, the central library.

Read the full story here.

More messages from your neighbours
15 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.

Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?

Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!

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1 day ago

Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.

Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔

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Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
  • 73.5% We work hard, we deserve a break!
    73.5% Complete
  • 16.3% Hmm, maybe?
    16.3% Complete
  • 10.2% Yes!
    10.2% Complete
442 votes
8 hours ago

Ryman Village Open Days

Diana Isaac Retirement Village

Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.

More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.

The best way is to experience it for yourself. No appointment necessary!

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