Christchurch City Council today unanimously gave the final sign-off on the Council-led master plan for the recovery and rebuild of the Selwyn Street shopping area. Team Leader District Planning Ivan Thomson says the Council's decision to adopt the master plan is great news for the community who have been actively involved in addressing the issues and options for the Selwyn Street shops and in the preparation of the Selwyn Street Shops Master Plan.

"The Council and the Selwyn Street community worked together to identify the views and aspirations of the residential and business community for the rebuild and recovery of their centre. Together we have come up with a robust, achievable plan that has strong community support."

Mayor Bob Parker says the adoption of this master plan is an important step toward the recovery of this historic shopping centre, to put it back on the map as a thriving, lively local village - a focal point for surrounding suburbs.

"This is very welcome news, and following-on so quickly after the adoption of Lyttelton and Sydenham Master Plans adds a real sense of momentum to the recovery of our city.