27 Feb 2026

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Councillors will be asked next week to decide whether to approve a $2.5 million upgrade of Worcester Boulevard as part of the ongoing Cathedral Square roading project.

Staff are recommending the Mayor and Councillors approve an upgrade to the northern side of Worcester Boulevard between Oxford Terrace and Cathedral Square. The proposal includes widening, repairing and renewing the footpath and road surface, as well as changes to parking to support nearby developments, including the Sheraton Hotel.  

The footpath in this area is currently in poor condition, having received little maintenance since the 2011 earthquake, and currently has broken sections and uneven surfaces. If approved, the work would integrate with the upgrade of the southern side of Worcester Boulevard, which has been recently completed.

The report says staff have recommended the extensive upgrade because it “meets the post-earthquake vision for a high-quality public realm within the square”. A second $500,000 option focused on basic safety and access, has also been included in the report but is not recommended by staff. Staff advise this option would likely require further upgrades in the future, potentially resulting in higher overall costs and disruption for existing developments. 

The upgrade is an initial stage of the wider regeneration of Cathedral Square, identified as an anchor project in the Christchurch Central Recovery Plan. Public consultation in 2017 showed support for creating greener, more people‑focused spaces in the Square, while maintaining access for businesses and visitors.

If approved, construction is expected to start in spring 2026 and be completed ahead of the Sheraton Hotel’s planned opening in early 2027. 

The Council will consider the report at its meeting on Wednesday 4 March.