Kangaroo Island Council has recently installed a board and chain walkway to improve and clearly define safe public access to Pennington Bay’s main beach.

Independent advice from the Department for Environment and Water and the Coastal Protection Board indicated that the original staircase location was no longer suitable due to erosion and cliff instability. 

In a high-energy coastal environment, stairs present ongoing safety, maintenance, and cost risks for both the council and the community.

Mayor Michael Pengilly says the approach reflects a commitment to both public safety and environmental care. 

“Pennington Bay is a very high energy beach with unique access issues, this new approach to the beach should stand the rigours and be very practical to many people.”

Chief Executive Officer Daryl Buckingham says the trial will guide future decisions on long-term access. 

“This option was chosen to withstand coastal conditions, reduce the risk of damage, and protect the area from further erosion. 

“We’ll be closely monitoring performance and safety outcomes, listening to community feedback, and working with our environmental partners to ensure the best outcome for both people and place.”

The new access trial was approved following discussions with the Coastal Protection Board and Crown Lands. 

This approach is said to provide low-impact beach access at a location assessed as more stable, while reducing the likelihood of future costly and disruptive repairs.

The project will be completed with further erosion control measures and revegetation works to protect this sensitive location.

The council has acknowledged the strong community interest in Pennington Bay access and thanked the community for its patience and ongoing feedback as it balances safe access with environmental protection and responsible financial management.