An earthquake-damaged Christchurch landmark, founded in the early 1900s by baking soda developer Thomas John Edmonds, looks "sure to rise" again.
Thomas Edmonds Band Rotunda Photo: Supplied
The recommendation to proceed in rebuilding the Thomas Edmonds Band Rotunda was made at today's communities, housing and economic development committee meeting.
The rotunda sustained earthquake damage in February 2011, and as a result was deconstructed, with the relatively unscathed copper heritage dome kept on site to be included in a rebuild at a later date.
The committee will now request approval from the Christchurch City Council's services group to use the original dome roof in the repair project, which is expected to cost $1.5 million.
To mark his 50 years of business in Christchurch, Thomas John Edmonds embarked on a number of philanthropic building projects, including the Theosophical Society building on Cambridge Terrace, the Radiant Hall on Kilmore Street and the famous Edmonds Clock Tower.
Outdoor brass bands were a popular form of entertainment in Christchurch and, in 1929, Mr Edmonds, himself a supporter of the Woolston Brass Band, donated the band rotunda to coincide with his own jubilee celebrations.
Committee chairperson Andrew Turner, said rebuilding the rotunda in its riverside location would give the future generations of Christchurch the chance to enjoy its old-world charms.
"Thomas Edmonds Band Rotunda is a fantastic example of a striking and iconic piece of heritage that can also be actively used by the community," Mr Turner said.
The project is expected to get under way in early 2017.
