A project is proposed to reseal the car park access road and seal the lower car park section of the Esplanade at Sellicks Beach.

The rock protection seawall bordering the car park is failing in sections and is below the required standards. During larger storm events, the unsealed car park and toilet block are impacted by over topping waves which erodes the car park surface and washes it into the marine environment.

These types of events are expected to become more frequent and intense into the future due to climate change impacts. The project aims to:

• improve car park functionality
• improve pedestrian safety and connectivity
• increase protection of existing infrastructure
• minimise erosion and reduce sedimentary run off into the marine environment
• reduce dust and ongoing maintenance requirements
• protect and enhance cultural and environmental values in the area
• avoid impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage.

During the planning stages for this project, we identified the high Aboriginal cultural value of the coastal strip at Sellicks Beach, which includes the area in which the existing unsealed car park is located. We have been engaging with Kaurna Meyunna, Traditional Owners to discuss various ideas for the design and construction methods for the car park. In delivering the project, we anticipate encountering only introduced fill material with no foreseeable impact on Aboriginal heritage, however, as a cautious approach in this location of high cultural value, we will engage Kaurna Cultural Heritage Officers to observe all excavation works in case of any inadvertent discovery of Aboriginal heritage objects while digging.

Due to the project area being located within a registered Aboriginal site and the technical design requirements being prepared in conjunction with our First Nations Advisory Group, there is very limited scope to vary the project design.

The car park and the beach access stairs (between the top car park and lower car park) will be closed for the duration of the project.

There will be a temporary closure of the vehicle access ramp and pedestrian walkway for two to three days during working hours during access ramp re-sealing. Notifications to the public will confirm the closure dates once a contractor is engaged for the construction works. Vehicle and pedestrian access to the beach will be open all other times.

What you need to know:

• Extent of works: You can view the scope in the Concept plan.
• Timing: Works are due to commence in May and are anticipated to be completed by June 2025, depending on weather and unforeseen delays.
• Car park closed: The car park will be closed for the duration of the project from mid-May to late June 2025.
• Beach access stairs: The beach access stairs (between the top car park and lower car park) will be closed for the duration of the project from mid-May to late June 2025.
• Boat ramp and pedestrian walkway temporary closure: We will be re-sealing the ramp between the Esplanade and the lower car park as part of this project. This will require a full closure of the ramp during working hours for 2-3 days between 10 and 13 June 2025, depending on weather and unforeseen delays.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve your coastal areas and infrastructure.