Damage to Town Hall revealed

Last updated 15:30 08/04/2011

 

LATEST: Christchurch's Town Hall and Convention Centre will be out of action until at least early next year, Vbase says.

A preliminary assessment today confirmed both central city venues sustained structural damage in the February 22 earthquake.

The Town Hall sustained extensive damage, especially in the Limes Room/Boaters wing, which separated from the main structure, and in the James Hay Theatre and main auditorium.

The Convention Centre sustained moderate structural damage as some levels sunk and extensive damage to floors from liquefaction.

Bryan Pearson, chief executive of Vbase, which runs the venues, said detailed assessments would not be finalised until next month. Both were unlikely to reopen again this year, he said.

''Until all geo-technical, structural, architectural, electrical and mechanical assessments are completed, it is not possible to provide a full picture of the damage, scope of repair and time frame for reopening,'' Pearson said.