Warm greetings fellow Angels; I just wanted to post this update for you:
As you may be aware, there has been widespread concern as to the safety of our dear Westfield Mall, as a result of our recent quakes & aftershocks. I am one for wanting to know the facts from the horses's mouth so to speak, so I contacted the Westfield Mall Centre Manager today, & I have permission to share this most recent media release for you:
WESTFIELD RICCARTON IS OPEN AND SAFE TO OCCUPY
Mr Justin Lynch, Director Westfield New Zealand:
For the people of Christchurch and in particular our own Westfield staff, it continues to be a challenging time.
We recognise and acknowledge the community is dealing with a changing environment and as a result there may be misinformation in the marketplace.
We wish to reassure our customers, retailers and all Westfield stakeholders that Westfield Riccarton has been given full safety clearance. Please note that the Centre has been given clearance from the Council during its inspections and it has not been “red stickered” at any time.
We have a very strict procedure of structural and life safety checks which are carried out after each major aftershock to ensure Westfield Riccarton (including the car park areas) is safe to occupy prior to recommencement of trade. Westfield has used a team of independent engineers and contractors to facilitate this work. We have tried not to burden the resources of the local authorities and emergency services who are working in areas of more significant affects of the earthquakes.
Each stage of the past developments was structurally designed to fully comply with the New Zealand Building Act current at the time of the development.
The safety of our customers, staff and retailers is paramount and we have taken every step to ensure Westfield Riccarton is a safe place to work and shop.
Westfield Riccarton engages Xona Consultants as their independent safety assessors for the structure of the building. Xona are responsible for carrying out all structural checks and Beca are responsible for carrying out services checks after each aftershock. Xona and Beca are reputable companies within their disciplines.
Westfield is undertaking the necessary remedial works to the damage sustained to the building and shops in any of the earthquakes or aftershocks to date.
We thank you for your continued support during this process.”
Customers can view updates on our shoppers’ website http://westfield.co.nz/riccarton/or by contacting the centre’s direct line on 03 983 4500.
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