Christchurch property developer Amherst Properties has been given a green light to develop an office and retail block just outside of the central business district.
It's the first company to be granted approval to build under the new fast-track system for resource consents developed by the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority and the Christchurch City Council.
The development will be a six level office building, with four levels of office space and two levels for retail and parking planned for professional firms such as solicitors and accountants.
Amherst managing director Lindsay O'Donnell says the move is significant for the city.
"This is the first one to be approved under this new ... fast-track system for resource consents after the earthquakes," he says.
"It's symbolic .. it represents the rebirth of central Christchurch".
The company plans to start construction in November or December, and complete it by early 2014.
