MP’s exit upsets community

Christchurch East MP Poto Williams is shifting her electorate office out of New Brighton – a move described as ‘‘a kick in the guts’’ for the seaside suburb.

In what Williams said ‘‘wasn’t an easy decision to make’’, the Labour MP will move to a new office in Linwood’s Eastgate Mall in May, just outside her electorate.

Her announcement follows speculation and criticism on social media that she was leaving New Brighton, and was trying to do so quietly.

Former manager of the New Brighton Business and Landowners Association, Paul Lonsdale, called Williams’ decision ‘‘unusual’’.

Politicians and other decisionmakers should ‘‘try and support communities in need’’, and New Brighton was one of those, he said. ‘‘They’re disappointed in the fact they’ve lost their importance and I suppose, post-earthquake, they felt they’ve been neglected by the city.’’

Despite council investment in a new beachfront playground and saltwater pools, parts of New Brighton are in poor condition, commercial landlords are struggling to fill shops, and proposed waterfront apartment developments have not materialised.

Williams said the new office would offer better bus access and parking and was near other social and medical services, which would be handy for constituents.

‘‘I believe that being more centrally located for the eastern suburbs ... will make it easier for people to reach me when you need to,’’ she said.

‘‘Of course, I still live in New Brighton, and I’ll continue to jog along the beach every morning,’’

Williams told a New Brighton Facebook group that cuts to New Brighton’s bus services were partly the reason for her shift.

Locals’ comments included, ‘‘retailers are starting to leave New Brighton. Her office will be another empty space’’, and ‘‘how many businesses will feel that much more confident when they see the MP sneaking off in the distance?’’ Williams defended taking time to announce the shift, saying processes had to be followed and details finalised.

Her new office is in the Port Hills electorate and just outside Christchurch East, which takes in about 20 suburbs or rural districts from Southshore to Brooklands. New Brighton Paper Plus owner Blair Hughes said Williams’ move was another blow for people in the area.

‘‘I personally think it’s very disappointing because it probably shows her commitment to the area.’’

He did not think much of Williams’ reasons for moving.