Demolition of pool to get going next week

Demolition of the Centennial Pool complex to make way for a new playground will start next week.

The Christchurch Central Development Unit (CCDU) bought the complex from the Christchurch City Council as part of the recovery blueprint plan.

The site is earmarked for the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, which is being developed in the block bordered by Manchester, Armagh and Madras streets and Oxford Tce.

CCDU director Warwick Isaacs said the demolition was a big step for the playground's development and would allow construction work to begin later this year.

"We are creating what will be one of the most amazing playgrounds in New Zealand, and potentially the world, and we are all very excited about seeing it come to life," he said.

"It will have a huge range of play areas and equipment, and by virtue of bordering the east frame's residential area, I know it will quite quickly become a busy, popular place for children of all ages and their families."

The demolition would take about eight weeks, Isaacs said.

The sale of the pool was controversial. Earlier this year Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel said the council had looked at retaining the inner-city sport centre but was bound by the cost-sharing agreement with the Crown.

- The Press

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Demolition of pool to get going next week