The much-delayed link is an underpass at Bowen Place near the National Gallery, and a 300-metre long path connecting Kings Avenue to the existing path network next to the lake.

The National Capital Authority is now calling for bids from contractors and expects construction to begin early next year.

A new crossing point at Bowen Place was installed earlier this year, positioned further up Bowen Drive away from the bend in the road to improve safety, while preparations were being made for the underpass.

The path and underpass are designed as an entry point to the Parliamentary zone.

The NCA tender calls for the pedestrian underpass, a new path network from Kings Avenue to the lake edge with high quality architectural precast walling panels and associated soft landscaping and lighting.

Contractors are told the work should be completed by December next year.

The authority's spokeswoman said the final link in the popular pedestrian and cycling track around the lake had been delayed by work on Scrivener Dam.

"We have moved high voltage and gas mains at Bowen Place and we will begin construction on the underpass early next year with the hope to complete it by the end of the calendar year," she said on Tuesday.

"We had public consultations to determine the best solution for that site but unfortunately with the engineering works required on Scrivener Dam, this project was placed on hold..

"However preparation works have been completed on the site so work can commence early in the new year."

The spokeswoman said the timing of the project was consistent with the announcement in 2011 that construction of the underpass would take place in 2014.