The impending demolition of the Thain's building at 1 Victoria Ave will be a sad loss to the city, Whanganui Regional Heritage Trust trustee Helen Craig says.
The devastating July 19 fire in the building has been a lose:lose situation - for owners, tenants and Whanganui residents. The gutted building must come down as soon as possible, because it is threatening businesses alongside.
Thain's has been an important building, Craig said, because it was a cornerstone of the riverside block of Victoria Ave and one of the first buildings visible from the main town bridge. It was at risk from earthquakes and floods, but with new owners embarking on renovations it could have continued to be important for Whanganui.
A notice to demolish it was issued on July 24. Whanganui District Council supports retaining heritage, Craig said, but the building was too fragile.
"No shoring up, even of the facade, was possible, as the mortar between the bricks has been too badly damaged and the risk of collapse is too high."