Christchurch City Council has approved a draft new city plan that will see buildings in the central business district restricted to seven storeys.

The rebuilt CBD will be low-rise and more compact than before, and the council will encourage rebuilding that exceeds current seismic standards.

The plan details more than 70 projects which will drive development over the next 10-20 years. It will be open for public consultation and presented to the New Zealand Government in December.

The 154-page document says lower building heights and adherence to building code standards will assist in helping people feel safe.

Mayor Bob Parker says the CBD “will be a low-rise, resilient, safe and sustainable place. It will be easy to get around, with a business-friendly compact central area, an array of inviting spaces and plenty of activities.”