New Brighton: A Coastal Suburb with Untapped Potential
New Brighton, a coastal suburb of Christchurch located 8 km east of the city center, boasts a large, easily accessible beach and a distinctive modern pier. Its 18 km-long Eastern coastline, consistent wave breaks, and steady easterly winds make it a popular destination for surfers and kite surfers alike. With excellent beach access, coastal pathways, and proximity to the Avon River, New Brighton's natural beauty and unique character stand out.
Despite these features, New Brighton is atypical for a coastal suburb, lacking the affluent development often seen in similar areas. The land and property values remain low, and prior to the 2011 earthquakes, the suburb was already in economic decline. The earthquakes exacerbated the challenges, severely impacting infrastructure and livelihoods, leading to a slow and uncertain recovery. However, the strong sense of community and local identity in New Brighton fuels a collective desire to revitalize the area.
To aid in this revitalization, the Christchurch City Council (CCC) and Development Christchurch Ltd (DCL) have identified an opportunity to develop a hot water salt pool on the foreshore. This facility aims to provide New Brighton locals with a new recreational space while also attracting visitors from other parts of Christchurch and beyond. The project is designed to bring new energy and economic opportunities to the suburb, helping to restore its vibrancy and appeal.
Client: Development Christchurch Limited
Lead Consultant: Select Contracts Limited
Project Lead: Tom Kenny (RIBA, ARB)
Architect: AW Architects
Construction Cost: ~$22m