During long-term plan deliberations on June 13, the Clutha District Council voted to scale back streetscape improvements forming part of the Milton main street upgrade project, in order to fit within its original $5million budget.
The upgrade is rerouting State Highway 1 powerlines underground at present, and will then move on to landscape the town’s Gray St plaza and sections of surrounding streets.
In June, the council voted to cut the budget for landscaping by half, to $2.25m, following cost blowouts in other elements of the project.
During its meeting last week, staff presented draft options for scaling back landscaping, in order to meet the revised budget.
Three options were presented, costing $2.1m, $1.8m and $1.6m.
Central to all three options was the removal from plans of a water feature and feature brick wall flanking the plaza, in front of the public toilets.
During the meeting, Clutha District Mayor Bryan Cadogan expressed concern further delays in redesigning the plaza would only hold back development.
Council transportation senior asset manager Christian Bopp said work could begin in January and end by May.
Cr John Herbert said the council should look in more detail at all three cost options to maximise the return
for residents.
"We need to make an informed decision, so we need to see what all three options look like from a tendering point of view."
Mr Bopp said cheaper options had been provided for consideration, as a contingency of 25% should be allowed.
Cr Dean McCrostie queried whether reinstatement of footpaths fell within the stated figures.
Mr Bopp confirmed they would be reinstated as part of works.
Local retailers were yet to be consulted on the revised proposals, he said.
Councillors voted unanimously to seek more detailed design and pricing for all three options before making a final decision.
