Work has begun this week to install new guard rails on the Rangitata Diversion Race bridge on Pudding Hill Road, near Methven.

The $300,000 project is being undertaken by Fulton Hogan and should be finished by Christmas.

The existing wooden rails will be removed and replaced with galvanised steel rails.

Council Infrastructure Services Group Manager Neil McCann said the new galvanised steel rails offered more protection and would help keep vehicles on the bridge in the event of a crash.

“People travelling on Pudding Hill Road over the next few months will find the bridge is down to one-lane while the work is done, but our contractors are working as quickly as they can.”

Walkers and cyclists using the Methven walkway will still have access to the track.