The former Westpac building at 56 Brighton Mall was purchased by the city council as part of the Oram Ave extension project, which proposes to develop a new movement corridor from Oram Ave towards Hawke St.
The demolition work is expected to take about three months.
Once works are complete, a pedestrian link will be established to encourage pedestrians in the area.
Jacob Bradbury, manager planning and delivery transport, says council is pleased to see demolition work begin at the site.
“We know that New Brighton locals are supportive of the project and keen to see work begin in this area. This project is the start of the upgrade and revitalisation work planned for the mall.”
Bradbury says the hope is that the walkway will become a social space for pedestrians to gather.
ChristchurchNZ placemaking and engagement advisor Rachael Shiels said the work was a further sign of progress on the regeneration of the seaside suburb.
“Momentum is really growing now in New Brighton, with the fantastic public attractions on the foreshore spurring more commercial and community activity.
“As part of the New Brighton Regeneration Project, ChristchurchNZ has been working alongside locals to support business activity and community activations. We’re looking forward to planning some fun activations in the vacant site left following the demolition of the Westpac building.
“We plan to start relatively small with some nice lighting and a mural, then work alongside the community to determine what else could be added.”
The previous tenants of 56 Brighton Mall – It Takes a Village and the Westpac ATM - were relocated to new premises earlier in 2023.
The Oram Ave extension project will involve further property purchases in the future.
The budget for the project in council’s Long Term Plan is scheduled from 2026 – 2029. In the interim, the project has focused on the demolition, which is supported by the Community Board.
