31 July 2011

Trust supports feasibility study for 'cardboard cathedral'

The Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Trust has announced funding of $50,000 towards the preliminary costs of a feasibility study into a temporary ChristChurch Cathedral (Anglican) in the city.

"The feasibility study will explore options for extending the use of a temporary Cathedral to other religious groups and for use by the wider community, for example for arts and culture and civic events," says Appeal Trustee Dr Rod Carr.

"The study will also look at how the structure could be used once its purpose as a temporary cathedral is complete."

The project is being undertaken in association with world-renowned architect Shigeru Ban. Ban is famous for his innovation and creativity in the wake of disaster.

The design for the temporary cathedral structure was revealed today in Christchurch by Dean Peter Beck.

"The temporary cathedral would be made completely out of cardboard, and seat up to 700 people. The feasibility study will be completed to determine its viability, and if it does go ahead a building could be completed and in place by 22 February 2012," says Dean Beck

More information: http://www.christchurchcathedral.co.nz/