Wonderful news for Marian!


The Catholic Bishop of Christchurch, Paul Martin, has announced a new Marian College is to be built in Christchurch’s north west on a new three hectare site, with the first students expected to start school in February 2023.

Our new College will neighbour St Joseph’s Primary School and will be on land bordered by Vagues Road, Main North Road and Northcote Road with the main entrance off Lydia Street.


The Bishop said that finding a new home for Marian College had always been one of his main priorities. The purchase of the former Foodstuffs warehouse property on Northcote Road has made this possible.


“There is much work to be undertaken, but between now, and when we take possession of the land in April 2021, we will proceed with all the scoping and design work ahead of construction starting,” he said.

Construction of the new school is expected to cost in excess of $20 million.

Marian College Board of Trustees Chair Jan Paterson welcomed the wonderful news.
“As well as being exciting and positive for our school, the changes are going to further strengthen and grow our Catholic community.
“On behalf of Marian College, we thank the Bishop, for his commitment to our future, and the Catholic Diocese of Christchurch for its guidance and steady support over the years,” Mrs Paterson said.
“Thank you also to our school community for your loyalty and patience and to all the schools, individuals, businesses and communities who have supported Marian since the earthquakes. It means a lot to us.”


Marian College Principal Mary-Lou Davidson said the Bishop’s decision was the news everyone was waiting to hear.
“We are all very excited,” she said. “While the heart of Marian will remain the same, we are very fortunate to be getting a new school.”
“History shows the heart of our school remains strong and true through change. Over the years we have encouraged each other to have faith in our future and we are ready for the challenges ahead of us.” Mrs Davidson said.
“We are looking forward to having a new permanent home, and closer working relationships with St Joseph’s School, Papanui, and Marian’s brother school, St Bede’s College.”
“We expect this year’s Year 9 students will be seniors at a new school,” she said.

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Article added: Monday 11 March 2019

 

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