Over 2000 properties cleared in red zone

5:42 pm on 15 May 2013

The Government says more than 2000 properties have now been cleared in Christchurch's residential red zone following damaging earthquakes in 2010 and 2011.

Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee said on Wednesday the Crown now owns 6059 properties and has cleared 2074.

Mr Brownlee said the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority is on target to complete 3000 demolitions by the end of September this year.

Areas currently being cleared are in the suburbs of New Brighton and Dallington, which were severely damaged in the quakes. They wil be planted in grass later this year.

Gerry Brownlee in the quake-affected suburb of Burwood on Wednesday.

Gerry Brownlee in the quake-affected suburb of Burwood on Wednesday. Photo: RNZ