Wet weather continues to delay the installation of the flying fox in the Ashburton Domain, with the double carriage and wires now expected to be fitted in three months’ time.

Chief Executive Hamish Riach said the delay was frustrating for both staff and the community, but rain had saturated the 20 tonnes of base material on top of the soil ramp that formed the runway.

“We really need this material and soil to dry out so it can be compacted properly and a smooth surface created for the artificial grass that will be laid. If the soil is wet when the artificial grass is laid, the runway will become lumpy and wrinkled with use, requiring reworking – which is not ideal.

“We want to do a great job because the flying fox will be a very popular spot.”

Council staff will plant native plants on the sides of the embankment and the installation contractor will keep an eye on the runway as it dries out. It could take up to three months for it to dry out completely and be ready for the grass carpet.

The two flying fox carriages and wires will then be fitted, and it will be ready for play.

“We know there are plenty of flying fox fans out there, big and small, who are waiting for this to be finished, and we are just as keen as them for the work to be completed,” Mr Riach said.