What is the history of the CRA?

Founded in 1944 by Stanley Kermode as Christchurch Citizens Association. The original purpose was driven by local housing. At that time there were many families unable to find suitable accommodation when a significant number of women were living alone in large houses.

Two years after the association was founded a new group was created named Christchurch Old Peoples Welfare and Housing. Over time it grew to be today’s Christchurch Housing Association.

These changes moved the Residents Association away from housing matters in detail and brought focus onto community matters such as council governance, public facilities, planning and the general ambience and environment in the borough.

A general refinement of its purposes has matched changes in the world we experience and is designed to hold accountable councils, business organisations and people who want to make changes that are not in the interests of residents and visitors. Frequently it is found that many changes are promoted without understanding the background, heritage and practical reasons for the current status.