Smith City Demolition – Project kick off

We’re proud to be kicking off the demolition of the former Smiths City flagship site on Colombo Street in the heart of Christchurch. A building with over a century of history is now making way for a new chapter in the city’s ongoing regeneration.

We’re delivering a complex, carefully staged demolition across a ~7,000m² site in the middle of the city, clearing the way for future homes and a renewed urban precinct. Our work includes full soft strip, asbestos removal, and the controlled, multi-stage demolition of the building’s upper and in multiple stages to maintain safety and programme efficiency.

Key parts of the demolition involve precision crane lifts to remove rear boundary concrete panels, alongside demolition of existing slabs, foundations, and surrounding areas.

The site will soon make way for a significant residential development, with plans for over 100 new homes in the heart of Christchurch. Designed to reflect the character of the surrounding area, the development will introduce a mix of terraced homes and apartments, supporting the continued growth and vibrancy of the central city.

At Taggart we take pride in projects being executed with a strong focus on safety, sequencing, and precision especially in a tightly constrained central environment. We’re excited to clear the way for the next stage of regeneration.

If you’re planning a complex demolition project and need a team with proven experience in delivering safely and efficiently, get in touch with Taggart. We’re proud to support projects that shape the future of our communities.