Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Heritage building owner considers legal action

Updated at 7:45 am on 23 August 2012

The owner of a central Christchurch heritage building says he may take legal action if forced to sell to make way for the city's rebuild plan.

The Christchurch Central Development Unit (CCDU) has sent nearly 900 letters to landowners whose property will be affected by developments outlined in the unit's blueprint.

Roland Logan's heritage building, which houses 10 businesses including the Christchurch Art Gallery, is in the way of a planned stadium.

He says he is one of many property owners unhappy with the position they have been put in as a result of the blueprint, and who are seeking legal advice.

"It is a giant land grab," says Mr Logan, "because the Government have already said they intend to on-sell this land to private developers in the future. The powers of the Government to acquire this land can't be achieved because a court of law would say ...'Well you have to show exactly what you're going to do on this land'."

CCDU director Warwick Isaacs says the blueprint will not be changed and the Government's offer will be based on current market values.

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