Leading architect Ian Athfield says proposed minimum heights for buildings in Christchurch could slow the movement of businesses back into the city.
The Christchurch City Council's draft plan to rebuild the central business district, released on Thursday, suggests a minimum of two storeys for new buildings.
The draft plan also specifies a maximum height of seven storeys for new buildings.
Mr Athfield, who was appointed the architectural ambassador for Christchurch by the New Zealand Institute of Architects following the September quake, says the minimum height limit seems to be rather arbitrary.
He says single-storey temporary buildings should be allowed so businesses can get cheaper rent and begin operating in the city earlier.
