A newly finished section of bund to reduce flood risk along South Brighton estuary is proving popular with walkers and cyclists.

The bund is part of a $12.5 million Christchurch City Council works programme to address earthquake legacy issues to the estuary edge in Southshore and South New Brighton. 

Made of compacted aggregate, the bund is set back from the estuary edge and runs through Bridge Reserve, south of Bridge Street. It is topped by an elevated two-metre wide pathway, providing pedestrians and cyclists with expansive views across the estuary.

 Around 5,600 native plants and trees have been planted, with some more landscaping work to come in certain areas, once the ground has dried out a bit more.

Council Head of Three Waters and Waste Helen Beaumont says the completed project is a welcome step forward for the area.

“Residents have been closely involved with Council in coming up with effective and workable solutions to earthquake legacy issues.

“It’s great to see people using the shared path on top for walking and biking. This bund not only reduces the risk of flooding, it also enhances and protects the natural amenity of South Brighton Park.”

Work to design the next section of bund from the jetty down to the boardwalk and through the residential red zone will be starting soon.