Joint venture agreement on Cathedral signed

Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel says the signing today of joint venture agreement on the reinstatement of Christ Church Cathedral is a positive step forward for the city.

The earthquake-damaged Christ Church Cathedral.

“We finally have the clarity we have been seeking around the future of Christ Church Cathedral and a clear way forward,’’ the Mayor says.

“The Cathedral is at the heart our city and this announcement means the surrounding property owners can proceed with their developments with confidence in the future,’’ the Mayor says.

Representatives from the Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Trust, the Church Property Trustees, and the directors of Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Limited gathered this morning at the Transitional Cathedral to sign the joint venture agreement.

The agreement sets out the terms in relation to the implementation, delivery and completion of the reinstatement project.

“We know the question on many people’s lips is why has it taken so long to get their agreement signed off? The answer is the Joint Venture Agreement is a complex document numbering more than 50 pages,’’ says Justin Murray, Chair of Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Limited.

“The time needed to be taken to get it right. It was too important, to all of us involved, and the wider community, to rush and risk getting it wrong. That could have led to more delays in the future.’’

Church Property Trustees Deputy Chair Moka Ritchie says the CPT Board is very pleased that all three partners in the reinstatement project have reached agreement on how the reinstatement will be progressed.

“We look forward to having our Cathedral in the Square built for worship to the glory of God and as a place of sanctuary and service in the centre of city. Today’s signing means our city can progress its recovery and the Diocese’s vibrant mission and ministry can flourish and grow,’’ Mr Ritchie says.

Acting Chair of the Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Trust Jenny May says the trust is delighted to be signing the Joint Venture Agreement.

“We have a long road ahead but our Trust is confident that all parties will work together to achieve our common goal of ensuring the Cathedral stands proudly once more in the heart of Cathedral Square.’’