Invercargill is facing mounting costs for earthquake strengthening of one a famous landmark and an inner city upgrade.
The two projects are expected to cost in excess of $11 million, much more than originally estimated.
A red brick water tower has been closed to the public since the Christchurch earthquakes.
Now engineers have confirmed it is earthquake prone, at only 25% of the new building standard.
A consultancy report said the tower and its neighbouring control building will cost about $1.5 million to strengthen.
Invercargill city council works director Cameron McIntosh said the next council will have to decide whether to spend the money, but it is probably worth it.
It was also been revealed on Friday the cost of a plan to overhaul the streetscape of the inner city has grown from $6.6 million to about $10 million, in the detailed design phase.
Inner city redevelopment committee chair Norman Elder said it is good value for such an inter-generational investment.
The inner city plan goes to the city council next Tuesday for approval.
