Another milestone in the Christchurch rebuild was reached today when the Mayor of Christchurch Lianne Dalziel, Councillors Yani Johanson and Paul Lonsdale and members of the Christchurch Coastal Pathway Group opened stage two of the Coastal Pathway.

When fully complete, the Christchurch Coastal Pathway will be a link from Sumner to Te Papa Ōtākaro/Avon River Precinct Avon River Precinct in the city, providing locals and visitors with a unique way to explore the city.

Speaking at the opening today, Mayor Lianne Dalziel said this is another step forward for the recovery in Christchurch.

“This is a great example of collaboration between the community and all the partners including the Christchurch Coastal Pathway Group, Christchurch City Council, Fulton Hogan and SCIRT, who have all worked hand-in-hand to deliver this great facility to the residents of Christchurch.

“Given the significant earthquake damage to the city’s recreational facilities, this is good news for everyone. The Coastal Pathway offers families and residents of Christchurch another facility to enjoy time together in a fun and healthy way and is a wonderful event to be involved in on the fifth anniversary of the beginning of the Canterbury Earthquake Sequence,” says Mayor Dalziel.

In November 2013, the McCormacks Bay Causeway three-laning project (also stage one of the Coastal Pathway) was reopened. Today’s opening of stage two of the Coastal Pathway means infrastructure for almost half the Coastal Pathway route is now in use.

Speaking from the opening today Dr Tim Lindley, Christchurch Coastal Pathway Group Chair said this was a great facility for all our community.

“The opening of this section of the Coastal Pathway is a very special moment for Christchurch. I would like to thank Fulton Hogan for their generous support, and also acknowledge work from SCIRT and the Council.

“People of all ages and abilities can now enjoy the Christchurch Coastal Pathway from Scott Park, Mount Pleasant, to Beachville Road, Redcliffs. We would encourage everyone to get out their sneakers, scooters, wheelchairs and bikes and give it a try, it is a fantastic experience,” says Dr Lindley.

The Coastal Pathway project was included in the SCIRT earthquake repair programme by the Council contractors Fulton Hogan, who also contributed $250,000 towards the project.

Grant Borrie, Fulton Hogan General Manager Joint Ventures, said seeing this part of the Coastal Pathway completed was another indicator of progress in the city’s recovery.

“It is fantastic to see the second stage of the Coastal Pathway completed. This achievement signals further progress in the journey towards rebuilding the city and providing world-class assets that showcase what Christchurch has to offer.

“Our support of the Coastal Pathway project is a great way for us to give back to the communities we live and operate in,” says Mr Borrie.