Cable bridge proposed for Coastal Walkway

Marion Council has revealed detailed designs of a proposed new cable bridge linking Grey Rd and Kurnabinna gullies along the Coastal Walkway at Hallett Cove.

The addition of a suspended cable bridge, in place of wooden steps along the popular beachside walk, will increase accessibility and be more user-friendly for all ages, as well as significantly reduce the impact to flora and fauna.

The bridge option also offers a reduced construction timeline, meaning residents and visitors can get back to enjoying the walkway sooner.

Lower ongoing maintenance costs are also expected compared to the existing structure.

The $4.8 million project (also taking in the segment at Field River) is being funded in partnership with the Minister for Planning via the State Government’s Open Space Fund ($2.44 million).

The detailed design includes opportunities for new lookouts along the upgraded section.

Beach access would be removed at Kurnabinna gully due to ongoing safety concerns about rock falls at the bottom of the staircase and entrapment on the beach. Alternate access points would continue to be available via a moderate walk in either direction.

Marion Council is scheduled to consider the concepts at its meeting on 26 October 2021.

Construction of the gullies section is expected to be complete by December 2022.

Council has been committed to fixing the walkway since safety concerns forced the temporary closure of these gullies back in June 2019.

The detailed design can be viewed by visiting makingmarion.com.au/coastal-walkway.