There's calls for a decision on the Christchurch Cathedral to be made once and for all.

Crowds gathered in Cathedral Square yesterday to hear whether or not the historical building could be restored to its former glory or if it would be demolished and replaced with a brand new building.

But they were surprised when government consultant Miriam Dean released her report and said more work would need to be done before a final decision - but confirmed the Cathedral was able to be restored.

Labour’s Canterbury spokesperson Megan Woods said the government now needs to revoke the demolition order which still sits over the Cathedral.

Ms Woods said the report offers a blue-print to sort things out once and for all, but action is needed.

"We're over the fences, we're over the broken building and we want now to see something that will give Cathedral square back it's beating heart and not be the dead heart it is at the moment."

Jim Anderton of the Great Christchurch Buildings Trust called the report a step in the right direction, and is praising the government.

He said the report shows what they knew all along and is positive there will be a final decision in April.