Old Public Trust Building to be sold

26 Sep 2013

The Old Public Trust Building in Lambton Quay is to be sold, the Old Public Trust Body Corporate announced today.

While the building’s strength has not significantly degraded, most of the building has been closed since the first Wellington earthquake on 21 July 2013. Structural engineers Dunning Thornton advised residents not to return to that part of the building due to the damage sustained to parts of the ceiling. The building sustained further minor damage in the second quake on 16 August 2013.

The Old Public Trust Body Corporate members: Creative New Zealand; Stout Street Chambers; Julian Parsons and Reedy Holdings made the unanimous decision to sell after careful consideration of their options and a review of advice received on repairing and strengthening the building.   

”The Old Public Trust Body Corporate feel the restoration and earthquake strengthening was a project it was not best suited to undertake,’’ said Body Corporate spokesperson and Creative New Zealand’s Acting Chief Executive, Angus Evison. 

“In making its decision, the Body Corporate was very conscious of the historical importance of this iconic Wellington landmark,” said Mr Evison. “We look forward to a new era for this heritage-listed building.’’

Background:

Built in 1909, The Old Public Trust Building it is a category one heritage listed building with the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. Creative New Zealand’s Wellington office has been in the building since 1985. 

 

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