Christchurch MP Jim Anderton has challenged earthquake-recovery agencies to clean up the suburb of Sydenham within a week.
Mr Anderton says businesses in the area are closing daily because rubble is still to be cleared and cordons lifted following a 7.1 magnitude quake on 4 September.
The MP says some insurance policies and the Christchurch City Council's new earthquake-strengthening rules for heritage buildings are exacerbating the situation.
However, he is confident a meeting on Thursday between businesses and the agencies has smoothed the road to recovery.
Mr Anderton says council and government officials and the insurance companies have undertaken to help the businesses recover.
