Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Draft plan still seen as hindrance to rebuild

Updated at 9:34 am on 8 February 2012

The Property Council says the draft central city plan for Christchurch will hinder the business community's efforts to rebuild.

In its second submission on the plan, the council argues that significant amendments are needed to restore the confidence of property owners and investors.

The Property Council says the plan includes restrictions on building height, floor area and parking; along with 'green' initiatives that could deter those trying to rebuild in the central city.

South Island president Graeme McDonald says there needs to be a simple process for resolving planning disputes.

While the council has seen some improvement in the plan since its first submission, he says there is still a way to go.

Rents too high

Sir Robert Jones says businesses won't be able to afford to set up their offices in the Christchurch CBD.

The veteran property investor says high building costs will mean high rents for tenants and many simply won't return.

Sir Robert says many tenants were paying low rents because they were in older buildings.

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