Bus exchange update

The new Bus Exchange at The Crossing (on the former Arthur Barnett and Cashel Plaza sites, linking Lichfield and Colombo Streets) will open in November for bus services. But watch out for open days and other activities in October.

The Bus Exchange will be comfortable, convenient and easy to use. It will link retailing and carparking with a modern waiting area for travellers.

The Council has staff members involved in the project available to talk to groups about how the exchange will look, operate and improve travelling and commuting in Christchurch.

Contact Janet Luxton on 025 220 7248.

Meeting for Hagley- Ferrymead people

Residents in the Hagley- Ferrymead ward can detail what their community's needs are at meetings in Linwood Service Center next month.

Community consultation meetings are scheduled at the service centre, 180 Smith Street, on Friday, 11 August ( 10am- 12noon) and Monday, 14 August ( 6pm- 8pm).

For more information contact community advocate Jude Pani on 941 6601.

Paying rates easier

A brochure is being sent to ratepayers advising how to make paying rates easier. It explains how to pay rates by direct debit and encourages ratepayers who are having financial problems to contact their local Council service centres for advice. It also talks about changes to the rates form.

The brochure is going out with rates invoices late this month ( July) and next month.

Christchurch City Council's direct debit system is called Rates Easypay. It saves people having to come into the Council and ensures rates are paid on time - and late payment penalties are avoided.

For more information about paying rates contact the Council Help Desk on 941 8441 or 941 8498.

Recyclers: remember!

Wet newspaper CANNOT be recycled so, at this time of year it's important to keep it dry by tying it securely in a plastic bag before putting it on top of the crate.

Cardboard should be flattened and tied into bundles no bigger than the crate, then placed next to the crate.

Items which should be put INSIDE the crate are:

• Plastics ( with " 1" and milk bottles) - rinsed and squashed
• Cans - rinsed and squashed
• Bottles - rinsed
• Egg cartons and trays. Keep up the great work Christchurch!