Marion Council has reopened 2km of the Hallett Cove boardwalk
A 2km stretch of Hallett Cove boardwalk has now reopened – but the fight to save the popular walking track is not over yet.
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Most of the popular timber boardwalk at Hallett Cove has now been reopened – however, Marion Council needs the State Government to help fund repairs for it to be fully accessible.
The council had to temporarily shut 2.5km of the boardwalk from Murto Parade, Marino to Peera Street, Hallett Cove to undertake safety inspections in June after an engineering report rated the safety risk as “high” due to drainage problems weakening the boardwalk’s timber footings.
After months of intensive engineering work – costing the council $238,000 – the only stretches of the 8km walkway that now remain closed are 500m at Kurnabinna and Grey Road gullies in Hallett Cove.
The council is planning a $4.8 million upgrade to the gullies and other sections of the 20-year-old structure, however, it requires the State Government to contribute $2.4 million toward the project.
Mayor Kris Hanna said the latest stage of repairs was great news for the thousands of locals and visitors who use the walkway.
“Diversions are in place around the only closed sections, so people can enjoy the walk and spectacular views,” Mr Hanna said.
“We are now seeking State Government funding to deliver a $4.8 million plan to fix the gullies and connect the walkway between Heron Way Reserve and the Field River.”
The engineering report stated that the coastal cliffs are a fragile environment for the walkway and that stormwater run-off combined with erosion had an extreme impact on the structures’ footings.
As a result, repairing or replacing ageing footings will likely only extend the life of the boardwalk for another five to 10 years.
Mr Hanna said the council had a long-term plan to renew all of the walkway.
“The walkway will eventually need to be entirely rebuilt,” he said.
“The coastal walkway plan would cost an estimated $14.5 million over 10 years.
“This underlines Council’s commitment to preserving this popular attraction for our community to enjoy.
“Council has been committed to reopening the walkway as quickly as possible. We are also committed to preserving it for future generations.”
The State Government has been contacted for comment.