Architectural Firm Appointed for New Upper Riccarton Library

20 August 2003

Warren and Mahoney has been chosen as the architectural company to design the new Upper Riccarton Community and School Library - a joint venture between Christchurch City Council, and Riccarton High School.

Upper Riccarton Library project manager Ian McKenzie says, "Warren and Mahoney was chosen after a process of submissions and interviews with a broad range of architects. They stood out as understanding the vision for this exciting building and as having a team that could deliver all the unique requirements."

Before the design process begins, potential library users will be invited to a public meeting in mid September, to give their views on the library’s content and design.

Feedback on how these suggestions have been incorporated into a draft building design will be given in November 2003.

The 1,500 square metre Riccarton Library is planned for completion in December 2005 and will serve about 30,000 residents from the Riccarton, Avonhead, Ilam, Sockburn, Wharenui and Wigram communities.

The Library will also be the Learning Information and Communication Centre (LINC) for the Riccarton High School population of about 1,100 students and staff.

"While the library will essentially serve two communities – the school and the public– the final design will provide for as much integration as possible," Mr McKenzie said.

The Library will be located on the Riccarton High School grounds fronting Main South Rd, with easy and safe access created for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

"Before this site was chosen, Christchurch City Libraries considered several other locations in the area but this was by far the best as far as easy accessibility, visibility and setting in an attractive location. It also brought the advantage of a partnership supporting lifelong learning," Mr McKenzie said.

"There is much to be gained from the partnership between the School, the Council and the Libraries. When it is finished, it is predicted that this facility will be the largest joint venture library in Australasia."

The Project Team for the Riccarton Library includes representatives from Christchurch City Council (Property Unit and Christchurch City Libraries), Riccarton High School, and the National Library.

Media Contacts

• Ian McKenzie, Christchurch City Council project manager, Ph 941 8286
• Gary Coburn, Riccarton High School principal, Ph 348 5073
• Nicki Moen, Christchurch City Libraries area manager, Ph 941 7896

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