Thanks to an incredible act of generosity from local legend, the late Harry Harper, the Kaiapoi Bridge is set to have its concrete balustrade upgraded to a stainless steel balustrade with new amenity lighting to complement its new look.

Harry dedicated his life to serving the community, and now, his bequeathed funds will help restore and enhance this well-loved bridge. His family is working alongside Council and local groups to ensure the design reflects Kaiapoi’s unique history.

Local artist, Mel Eaton, has been chosen to design panels for the Bridge. Her design takes users on a journey through Kaiapoi’s rich history—from early Ngāi Tūāhuriri settlement to today’s vibrant riverside community by means of stylised panels placed across the bridge.

This upgrade will improve the bridge’s safety by providing higher handrails and will also create a beautiful, lasting tribute to Harry’s legacy.

The work will include

• Removal of the existing concrete balustrade and replaced with stainless steel, similar to that of the surrounding Marina.
• The installation of six large panels depicting a journey through time, with an additional panel in front of each light pole featuring additional designs showcasing Kaiapoi’s rich history.
• Painting of existing street light poles with an upgrade to the existing lanterns.
• Installation of new feature lighting to really bring the bridge to life.
• Painting of the existing footpath to compliment the above work.

Timing of work

Work is due to commence early June and programmed to be completed by late August, this will greatly depend on weather during the winter months.

How the work may affect you

One side of the bridge will be completed at a time, during the work the corresponding footpath will be closed. It is unlikely that road or lane closures will be required, however if they are needed then the work will be undertaken at night to minimise disruption. Advanced notification will be provided with a minimum of one weeks notice to the public and surrounding businesses.

There is likely to be increased construction noise but this will be kept to a minimum during business hours.

Work days and hours will be typically Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm. However, some night work and weekend work may be required in order to limit disruption to surrounding businesses and users.

General impacts

Essential services

There will be no planned disruption to your water, wastewater, telephone or power services.

Notice of changes in traffic management

We will do our best to give you enough notice to adjust to any changes in traffic management, please keep an eye out for more updates.

Weather

In the event of bad weather or unforeseen circumstances, the work may be delayed.

Safety

Please warn your children of the dangers posed by road works. Ensure that they stay well back from the work site and they follow the directions of the workers.

Noise and dirt

Road work is a noisy, dirty business — but please bear with us. We will be doing all we can to minimise the impact on your home/business. Your cooperation and patience will help us get the job done as quickly as possible. All work will be carried out between the stated hours.

Thank you for your patience while we complete this work. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Glenn Kempton Senior Project Engineer (Civil) Waimakariri District Council Phone: 0800 965 468 DDI: 03 266 9264

Anthony Simpson Project Manager Division Group Mobile: 027 576 9195 Email: anthony@divisiongroup.co.nz