Church rethinks demolition

The Mormon Church appears to have abandoned its plans to demolish the old Church College campus, with a senior church official confirming "future possibilities" for the site are being explored.

Kent Money, the church's Utah-based property arm manager, was in New Zealand last month to meet members of the Temple View community.

Mr Money was reluctant to give specific details on the discussions, but in an email sent to the Times he said the church was "still exploring solutions (for the campus) that are economically viable and sensitive to community needs" and "future possibilities" for the site had been discussed.

Church College closed its doors in December.

The Times understands one possibility is that Koromatua School could move to the site.

Mr Money answers directly to Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints president Thomas S Monson, and is the most senior administrator to become involved in decision-making on the future of the historically significant campus.

"We appreciate all of the support that we have received. This spirit of co-operation is evidence of the ongoing historical significance of this place," he said.

Mr Money said that as consultation continued "we are hopeful that a scenario will be identified".

"We plan to work with both the city and the community towards this end."

Efforts to gain further comment from Mr Money were unsuccessful, but Times sources at the meetings said Mr Money and the church were open to seeing the campus used for a new educational facility, either as a private institution, or under the auspices of the Education Ministry.

Although a ministry official said it was not involved in any current discussions on the future of the campus buildings, it is understood Mr Money could meet with it on a future visit.

The sources said it now appeared the demolition of the campus – including the significant David O McKay Building, housing a gymnasium, auditorium and swimming pool – would not go ahead.

Temple View Heritage Society's Robert Cammock said the group was "delighted" the church was responding to community concerns by reconsidering how the campus could be used.

"Demolition would now seem unlikely as all alternatives are being explored," Mr Cammock said. "I don't think that's an option any more.

"My personal view is that it would be in the best interests of all parties if the school could re-open as a character school."

He felt the society's main goal – the retention of the significant campus buildings – was now likely to be achieved.

- © Fairfax NZ News