Flood protection and beautification work continues on the Water of the Leith yesterday, as the project nears completion.
The walkways were closed in November, so contractor Lund South could start work on the next stage of the Leith flood protection scheme.
''The original intention was to have it done about now, but the contractor is behind with the programme for various reasons,'' Otago Regional Council environmental engineering and natural hazards director Gavin Palmer said yesterday.
''The work is to improve the standard of flood protection and public access to the Leith, as well as improve the aesthetics.''
Dr Palmer was unable to say when the work would be completed, but said it was ''not far away''. The redevelopment would include the planting of vegetation to beautify the area.
The work is part of an eight-stage project to reduce flooding in the central business district and University of Otago campus area, while improving access to the Water of Leith.
The Cumberland to Dundas Sts stage was completed last year.
