![A sign in George St, Dunedin, warns people to stay out of garden beds because of "carnivorous...](https://www.odt.co.nz/sites/default/files/styles/odt_landscape_extra_large_4_3/public/story/2024/04/carnivorous_plants_1.jpg?itok=QKlHvNWv)
Finishing touches will be applied after this, but the vast majority of work is expected to be completed by the end of this month.
The George St component of an upgrade of the central retail area began in the Farmers block in April 2022.
Redevelopment was required because ageing pipes needed to be replaced and it was also determined three blocks of George St would be converted to one-way traffic and the area should be made more suitable for pedestrians.
The full project encompassing the retail area was budgeted in the ballpark of $100 million.
A Dunedin City Council spokesman said yesterday the project remained on budget and was due to be completed about six months ahead of the original schedule.
Contractors needed a few extra days to complete a play space, he said.
"We will still need to carry out the usual minor finishing touches once the road reopens, which is normal for any big project, but all the major elements of the work will be finished," the spokesman said.
In a project update yesterday, the council said work was being carried out to complete intersection road surfacing and sealing.
This included the five-way intersection at George, London, Pitt and Frederick Sts, as well as the intersection of Hanover and George Sts, and the intersection of St Andrew and George Sts.
The last remaining areas of underground work to replace drinking water, wastewater and stormwater pipes was taking place in the York Pl, St Andrew St and Filleul St corner.
Garden beds are a feature of the new streetscape and it appears the council or its contractors have gone to creative lengths to discourage damage to recent plantings.
Signage warns of "carnivorous plants" and people are encouraged to stay out of the beds.
The signage appears to have been inspired by Little Shop of Horrors.
Coincidentally, a production of the musical, which features a bloodthirsty plant, is due to be staged in Waikouaiti next month.