A former industrial site in Sydenham is set to be transformed into a vibrant new neighbourhood, with ChristchurchNZ announcing a partnership with Fletcher Living to deliver a sustainable housing development that will bring more residents closer to the city centre.
The development, located on the old Citycare depot site between Milton Street and Sydenham Park, will include around 80 terrace-style homes, with a mix of two- and three-bedroom options. At least 11 of the homes will be offered at affordable prices, alongside market-rate homes, with each expected to include off-street parking and garaging.
Fletcher Living was selected following a competitive tender process led by ChristchurchNZ’s Urban Development team, which sought a development partner capable of delivering a high-quality and connected residential precinct.
Fletcher Living Chief Executive Residential and Development Steve Evans said the company was excited to be part of the project.
“We are delighted to be working alongside ChristchurchNZ in the development of Sydenham Yard. It is a great site close to the central city and we are looking forward to creating a community future residents will love, much like One Central.”
Construction is expected to begin next year, and the development will also support key city infrastructure upgrades, including water and electricity services, along with a new Government research facility on-site.
ChristchurchNZ Acting General Manager Urban Development Amanda Healy said the site presented unique challenges, but also offered huge potential.
“Fletcher Living has been fantastic working through the complexity of the site and are aligned with our long-term vision for the area,” she said.
“We saw great potential in Sydenham Yard early on, so getting to this stage is really rewarding. It’s definitely a special project and one that will give back to its community and the city for years to come.”
ChristchurchNZ will continue to work with Fletcher Living on a placemaking strategy designed to connect new residents with the surrounding community. Healy said the multi-use development would deliver far more long-term value than a single-use site.
The area is expected to bring around 80 new homes and 120 workers closer to the city centre. The site is well connected to nearby parks, retail, public transport, and is within walking distance of central Christchurch.
“We hope the result will be a sustainable, vibrant neighbourhood with a strong sense of community. Our ultimate vision is to create a place where people love to live, work and play,” Healy said.
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger welcomed the announcement.
“It’s welcome news that there will be more affordable housing options available to meet the needs of our community,” he said.
“The development is ideally located near bus routes and it’s also within walking distance of the city. This is exactly what Christchurch is crying out for.”
The Sydenham Yard site was previously occupied by Citycare until 2022. It contained council-owned community housing and local infrastructure facilities. Due to decades of industrial use, the land has required significant assessment and remediation work, including managing soil contamination, geotechnical challenges and zoning constraints.
