No exception for Strip entertainment area in public rentals policy

31 August 2006

Christchurch City Council today confirmed its policy about charging for private use of public space for things like tables and chairs on pavement outside bars and restaurants.

The policy was updated in December last year and about 80 businesses impacted by the change have been operating within it. However, a small number of establishments on the Oxford Terrace Strip in the central city challenged the change and, as a consequence, the council decided to hear arguments from those opposed to the original decision and reconsider whether it had made the right decision. A fortnight ago, it delayed once more to allow valuers representing each side to meet.

The valuer representing the council reported that he was continuing to offer the same advice -- that the council should adopt the proposed method of calculating fees. An accompanying staff report says the scheme first adopted in December will result in rentals that are fair and reasonable for the city.

All businesses with tables, chairs and other furniture on public land must have entered into the council’s new standard licence by 1 November. The council gave senior staff the power to enforce the policy.
 
● Today’s reports are here

● The policy (the Public Streets Enclosures Policy) is here 

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