Mayor Bob Parker announces economic measures aimed at revitalising the inner city
Friday, 20 August 2010 00:00
Today Mayor Bob Parker announced some economic measures aimed at revitalising the inner city.
Mayor Bob Parker says, “Our inner city is in a finely balanced state at the moment and strong measures are needed. I’m advocating for two hours free parking in the central city in council parking buildings to help central city retailers attract more customers to counteract the difficult economic times.
“I’m also proposing creating a special economic development zone in the inner city. Inside this zone development contributions will be removed for a limited period of time, potentially several years. This initiative is aimed to kick start redevelopment in this area. I am keen for businesses and residents to come back to our inner city – to regenerate the heart of the Christchurch.
“These initiatives are cost neutral. For example to pay for them we would define an area in the inner city as a special regeneration zone. In this zone, as the capital base grows through development, the increase in rates income is directed into repaying the initial council investment in infrastructure.
“This city deserves a great future and these initiatives will help stimulate the Central city’s long-term economic well-being, “says Bob Parker.