Expert to make call on future of performing arts precinct

A libraries expert has been appointed to make a fresh call on the future of Christchurch’s performing arts precinct.

The Christchurch City Council has appointed former National Library executive Sue Sutherland to evaluate all options for the central city rebuild project.

Precinct plans include a new home for the Court Theatre, a car park building and a second multipurpose performance venue for a range of arts groups. The council is developing the project, while the Government is buying the land.

Two competing theatre companies were vying to be the first built in the precinct on a site bound by Armagh, New Regent, Gloucester and Colombo streets.

Theatre producer Michael Bell wants his $17 million 400-seat Andromeda theatre, dubbed the ‘‘purple croissant’’, to be built first, while Court chief executive Philip Aldridge wants his new $45m theatre to be the first built on the site. The council’s $30m budget for the project meant there was not enough money to build both theatres at once.

Council head of recreation, sports and events John Filsell said Sutherland would report back at the end of this month and councillors would consider options for the precinct early next year.

‘‘[Her report] will provide the council with a clear picture of the current state of the project and the views of stakeholders. It will also inform a number of options and assist in the evaluation of those options,’’ he said. ‘‘We wanted to ensure the work was completed in a timely fashion. We also wanted to provide a level of independence by engaging a consultant who has not been involved in the project.’’

He said Sutherland would review the whole project. Sutherland, who worked for Christchurch City Libraries from 1994 to

2005 and the National Library from

2005 to 2011, has interviewed performing arts leaders as part of her council report.

A report commissioned by the council and leaked earlier this year revealed a new Court Theatre would cost $45m and the second multi-purpose theatre about $17m.

Aldridge did not respond to calls seeking comment. Bell believed the consultant would support his project. ‘‘Every time the council has investigated the options and consulted the performing arts community, it has resulted in a resounding call for a 400-seat multipurpose theatre for use by everybody,’’ he said.

YMCA Christchurch arts projects manager Adam Hayward, who manages the Papa Hou theatre, has been interviewed for the council report. ‘‘They have reached a point where they need to make a decision, so they have brought in a consultant,’’ he said.