Work on a $4.2 million upgrade of the New Brighton pedestrian mall will begin next week.

Christchurch City Council approved the funding to transform the mall into a more welcoming connection between the beach, pier, local businesses and nearby developments.

Council planning and delivery transport manager Jacob Bradbury said the project would support the regeneration of the New Brighton commercial area and encourage more people to visit.

“It’s been more than a decade since this project originated in the New Brighton Centre Master Plan,” Bradbury said.

Since then, the area has welcomed the New Brighton hot pools, City to Sea Pathway, Marine Parade upgrade and New Brighton Beachside Playground.

Private developments have included the Village Green Project and Pierside.

“With the mall acting as a gateway of sorts between all these different destinations, now’s the time to give it a facelift,” Bradbury said.

A central gathering area will be created beside the Village Green, with seating, planting, irrigation and feature lighting.

New streetlights, crime prevention cameras, wastewater pipes and upgraded drainage will also be installed.

The project will include cultural artwork, new rubbish bins, a drinking fountain and signage.

Southpaw Brewing Company and the Village Green will remain open and accessible during construction.

The New Brighton Seaside Market will move to the New Brighton Club car park while the work is completed, before returning to the mall.