PHOTO: DAVID UNWIN/STUFF Maurice Campbell, owner of Clarks Clothing and Taper cafe, has concerns a lack of financial assistance for earthquake strengthening may force businesses to leave or demolish buildings along Oxford St.
A Levin shop owner says if tax relief for earthquake strengthening is not provided to building owners, it may force businesses to leave the town’s main stretch.
Maurice Campbell, owner of Clarks Clothing and Taper cafe on Oxford St, said tax relief from the Government would encourage businesses to bring buildings up to standard faster.
He said the expense associated with strengthening would create a “mad rush” at the end of the 7½-year period, which is how long a building owner has to bring a structure up to standard once they are told it doesn’t meet building standards.
Campbell, who also owns the building from which his businesses operate, is concerned the timeframe and lack of financial assistance for strengthening works will lead to people choosing to build cheap replacements that would damage the character of Levin.
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