Advertisements cause concern

20 April 2007

Advertisements which appeared in today’s newspaper, The Press, under the guise of a public notice, promoted the temporary closure of public areas of Cathedral Square tomorrow, next Tuesday and Thursday for the filming of a feature film.

It stated the authority for the closure and cordoning off of areas was granted by order of Christchurch Public Domain Authority.

City Council Regulation and Democracy General Manager Peter Mitchell says a consent was granted to Tamaki Heritage Village for a display area in the Square from noon to 1pm this Saturday and next Tuesday and Thursday. This display is for 10 to 15 people to give a performance promoting the new heritage village at Ferrymead.

"The promoters had indicated it would be a low-key event, simply drawing on the crowd that was in the Square. They have reassured us they are expecting only 100 or so people to attend the event."

Mr Mitchell says no area of the Square is to be closed or cordoned off during the event.

"The advertisement caused some anxiety for people who have other events happening in the Square tomorrow and the potential impact on the livelihoods of businesses based in or around the Square.

"The Council wishes to reassure the public that all events programmed for tomorrow and next week, including the Thursday market, will proceed as planned."

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