A fourth river crossing will soon be constructed in the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor, completing the first phase of Christchurch’s City to Sea Pathway project.
Construction on the new Dallington bridge is set to begin at the end of April, with completion expected by the end of August.
The bridge’s design is based on concepts developed by engineering and fine arts students from the University of Canterbury. It draws inspiration from the traditional mōkihi — small canoes made from raupō and flax, better suited than larger waka for navigating narrow streams and rivers like the Ōtākaro.
Residential Red Zone Manager Dave Little said the Dallington bridge will be the fourth and final walking and cycling bridge built within the corridor since the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor (OARC) was established.
Christchurch City Council
“We’re pleased to see construction start on the Dallington bridge. We know the community are really looking forward to enjoying the western section of the City to Sea Pathway on completion,” Little said.
The bridge is being assembled off-site, and a crane will be used to lift it into position later in the year. A public event will be held to allow the community to witness the crane operation and celebrate the milestone.
Little also acknowledged the support of the Christchurch Earthquake Appeals Trust (CEAT), which funded the new bridge. CEAT was established to allocate donations from the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal to support recovery initiatives.
During construction, temporary fencing will be installed around the site, and signage will redirect pedestrians and cyclists safely around the works. The Council is advising dog owners to keep dogs on leashes in the area due to increased construction activity.
“We appreciate these works will be disruptive and thank the community for their patience during the construction period,” Little said.
The City to Sea Pathway is an 11-kilometre-long shared-use trail that follows the river from Christchurch’s central city to New Brighton.
