Barriers installed by Christchurch City Council on New Regent have stopped trams today.
Safety concerns were raised about five privately owned buildings along the street after the magnitude 5.7 Valentine's Day earthquake. All buildings are owned by the same person, who's been advised to complete an engineering report.
The street will remain open to pedestrians and most businesses will continue to trade as normal, the council says.
"People will still be able to access New Regent Street from Armagh Street and Gloucester Street, and there will be pedestrian access along the full length of New Regent Street," Consenting and Compliance Manager Peter Sparrow says.
"Unfortunately, the fencing outside the five units will block access along the tram tracks, stopping the trams from using New Regent Street. We have met with the tram operator Welcome Aboard to discuss the impact."
The council classified the units as dangerous and earthquake-prone, Mr Sparrow says.
"Our primary concern is to make sure New Regent Street is safe for people who work in and visit the area."
The owner has until March 29 to apply for a building consent for work to make the sites safe.
Newshub.
