Since the Council consulted with the community two years ago, and received the final go-ahead from the Environment Court in May this year to proceed with the changes, locally based contractor Works Infrastructure have been appointed to construct the changes. Work is scheduled to begin on Monday 9 September.

The road works involve changing Fendalton Road between the railway and Clyde Road from two lanes to four. The new road will include a landscaped median, cycle lanes, and visitor parking among the existing trees where possible. The project also includes providing off-street parking to serve the needs of visitors to St Barnabas Church.

The works will be constructed in five stages, with the entire job taking up to 14 months to complete.

Councillor Dennis O’Rourke says that, when the changes are completed, Fendalton Road will be something we can all be very proud of.

“All city residents will be glad to know that this long delayed project is now finally to be commenced. It will replace the current inadequate part of this vital airport route, between the railway and Clyde Road, to a consistent high standard. It will then be a beautifully landscaped route for its whole length, showing off Christchurch as being worthy of 'garden city' status to visitors, but also incorporating many safety improvements”, said O’Rourke.