Developers push on with $160m Canterbury project

Property developers say they will go ahead with a $160 million subdivision near the seaside town of Spencerville, 14km north of Christchurch, which pivots around a proposed 18-hole golf course and golf academy.

"Starting an undertaking of this magnitude is an important message to the world that Christchurch is back on its feet and not only starting the rebuilding process, but also embarking on exciting new developments," said a spokesman for the developers, Thomas Na.

Earthworks could start in the next few months.

The developers said there were still resource consents to be gained, but the Canterbury Regional Council had withdrawn its appeal against the Christchurch City Council's acceptance of a private plan change for the 160ha site.

They said there would be an 18- hole championship golf course, a professional golf training academy for up to 160 students, with accommodation and lecture theatres, a sports complex including a gym and indoor swimming pool, 86 apartments and 141 residential sections.

- NZPA