Wellington's mayor believes there is public support for the council to push ahead with earthquake strengthening the capital's town hall

The budget for the project has ballooned to 112-million-dollars, mainly due to its complexity and a busy construction market.

Mayor Justin Lester says there are three available options - do the work, leave it there or demolish it.

He says the last two options are problematic.

Lester says it's an important project and one he believes the public wants to proceed with.