Nazareth House demolition

Press, 11 February 1986, Page 20

Nazareth House demolition

Sir, — The solicitors acting for the sisters at Nazareth House claim that demolition of Nazareth House must proceed because delays in building the new suburban units behind it would increase costs (“The Press,” January 17). Yet Nazareth House does not have to be demolished before the new buildings can be erected. They were always going to be erected behind the present one. Construction can begin, and finish, while the fate of the old building is considered. One cannot but conclude that the owners have made up their minds to demolish, and are simply looking for any old excuse. The Historic Places Trust’s fine proposal would, it seems, not cost the sisters, ratepayers, or taxpayers a penny. At least Bishopscourt

was not demolished when pensioner flats were built there. Does the Catholic Bishop of Christchurch have any opinion? — Yours, etc., x (Miss) L. T. TAYLOR.

January 31, 1986. [The Catholic Bishop of Christchurch, the Most Rev. D. W. Hanrahan, replies: “I am pleased to have the Sisters of Nazareth in this diocese, and I am grateful for the help that they provide for people through Nazareth House. I appreciate the difficulties they experience in maintaining Nazareth House and providing its services. The need to rebuild has been well researched. I suggest that your correspondent is incorrect in her conclusion that the sisters ‘are simply looking for any old excuse’ to demolish. Ultimately the sisters, as owners of the property, are faced with the financial responsibility incurred in maintaining or rebuilding. They also have to decide on the facilities that are best suited for the work for the elderly. I understand that the time schedule for the various stages of the rebuilding programme will allow for the continuing accommodation of the Nazareth House residents.”]