A controversial proposed elevated walkway at Bells Beach has been rejected in a move praised by local community groups.
Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio on Wednesday announced the approval of a new Bells Beach management plan, effectively scrapping Surf Coast Shire’s proposed elevated walkway.
Surfrider Foundation praised the rejection of the walkway, labelling the initial proposal “stupid”.
“This is fantastic news,” the foundation said in a statement online.
“A massive thanks to everyone who signed a petition or wrote a submission. A great win for Bells Beach and the environment.”
The Greater Torquay Alliance also praised the minister’s “very astute decision”.
“A big thanks to everyone … who told the council and the state government panel that this platform was a bad idea,” the alliance said in statement.
Following community outcry over the proposal, Ms D’Ambrosio referred it to a state-appointment advisory committee in August 2020
On Wednesday the minister announced she had accepted the committee’s recommendation of “no pressing or overwhelming need for a permanent elevated platform”.
“I have approved the Bells Beach Surfing Recreation Reserve Coastal and Marine Management Plan, subject to the removal of the proposed elevated walkway and viewing platform,” she said.
The committee found the World Surf League (WSL) was “neutral” about whether a permanent or temporary structure was needed.
The Surf Coast Shire is the land manager for the Bells Beach Surfing Recreation Reserve and will implement the new management plan, according to state government.
South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman said the amended plan would protect the natural environment, Indigenous heritage and surfing culture of Bells Beach.
“Bells Beach is a national and international icon, is heritage-listed and is a culturally-important place for the Wadawurrung People.”
The move comes after the cancellation of the Rip Curl Pro earlier this year due to state government quarantine concerns.
In February state government announced it had signed a three-year deal with WSL for the Rip Curl Pro to return to Bells Beach in 2022.
Surf Coast Shire environment and development general manager Ransce Salan pointed out that council in November 2019 deferred a “final decision” on the elevated walkaway “to enable further community consultation”.
