Part of Christchurch CBD to reopen

A map of the areas planned to reopen in October. Photo / Supplied

Part of central Christchurch will be open for business again from October.

Under the project Re:Start 29.10.11, authorities plan to have existing businesses operating from relocatable structures from October 29 in the area between Oxford Terrace, Hereford St, Colombo St, and Lichfield St.

The reopening is being timed to cater for Canterbury's Cup and Show Week in November.

Mayor Bob Parker said the project was the first "really bright ray of sunshine" for the central city.

"From October 29 residents of Christchurch will once again be able to enjoy shopping and eating in the central city," he said.

"It is essential we reopen on this date in preparation for New Zealand Cup and Show Week, one of our busiest and most prosperous weeks of the year, and for Christmas."

Mr Parker said the goal was to have a draft plan for the rebuilding of the entire central city ready for presentation to the Government at the same time.

He described Project Re:Start, led by the Central City Property Owners and Business Group, as a "retail bridgehead" from which further areas of the central city could then open.

Hub for businesses planned

It was also announced today that Westpac is to set up a temporary business hub for quake-affected small businesses in Christchurch.

Slated to open in early May, it will give local small and medium-sized businesses free access to office space and key services such as communications facilities.

It would offer "all the essential tools of doing business - phone, photocopying, office space and video conferencing capability," general manager of business banking Ian Blair said.

"The fitout will have the look and feel of a business environment."

He said many businesses were also dealing with major issues such as insurance claims.

"To help with that, we are looking at supporting services such as lawyers, accountants, and other advisers being available on site."

It is expected the hub - which will cover 2500 square metres and may be extended in size if there is additional demand - will be able to accommodate up to 70 businesses at any one time.

It will be located next to the CBS Arena and will operate for up to 18 months.

The Canterbury Chamber of Commerce will also have a presence at the business hub.

Chief executive Peter Townsend said it would make a big difference in helping the business community pick itself up.

Prime Minister John Key this afternoon welcomed the announcement.

"I applaud Westpac for investing for the long-haul in Christchurch businesses. This is a further example of the private sector stepping up and showing their confidence in the future of Christchurch."

The application process for businesses wishing to use the Hub will be announced in mid-April, in which Westpac customers will receive some preference.