Community members have more time to comment on the Godwin Beach seawall renewal, with consultation extended as three options for the future coastal structure remain under consideration.
Feedback is being sought until 23 August 2026 on how the Godwin Beach foreshore is used, preferences for its future and where pedestrian beach access and a small ramp for canoes, kayaks and similar watercraft should be positioned.
The consultation period was extended by one week after a planned community pop-up was postponed by two weeks because of forecast strong winds.
The Bureau of Meteorology had forecast strong winds for the original event date, prompting the postponement on safety grounds. The rescheduled pop-up will now be held on Saturday, 15 August 2026, from 9am to noon near the amenities building at Godwin Beach.
The extension gives people additional time to speak with the project team before completing the survey.
Feedback can also be submitted through the online survey and map activity, by email or by post.
Three Options for the Godwin Beach Seawall
Three approaches have been shortlisted for further assessment, with a rock seawall forming most of the structure under each option.
Option 1 would consist of a sloping rock seawall topped by a wide concrete pedestrian path. Large rocks arranged on a slope would provide protection from waves and shoreline erosion.
Option 2 would combine the rock seawall with habitat features along a small section of the foreshore. Smaller rock formations would be used to create intertidal areas, including rockpool-like habitat for marine plants and animals.
Option 3 would incorporate nature-based protection within a small section. Possible measures include reshaping the foreshore to a more natural slope, potentially using sand nourishment, native coastal and saltmarsh planting, and offshore artificial reefs.
Small sections of the existing seawall could also potentially remain under Option 3 where they would not affect the structural integrity of new protective elements. This would not be confirmed until detailed design if that option is selected.
Options 2 and 3 would use their alternative approaches as small trial sections, which would be monitored if built to assess how effectively they perform.
Regardless of the option chosen, the final design would include at least three staircases for foreshore access, along with a ramp suitable for small watercraft such as canoes and kayaks. The location is not considered suitable for a large all-tides boat ramp.
A low concrete block would also run along the park side of the seawall to help reduce wave overtopping during severe weather and provide an informal seating area.
Why the Seawall Is Being Renewed
The existing Godwin Beach seawall was built in the 1980s and has gradually deteriorated because of tides and coastal weather events.
It protects parkland, Godwin Beach Esplanade and houses behind the foreshore from coastal erosion. The area is also used for recreation and is an important environmental area and protected migratory bird habitat.
Planning for the renewal is intended to provide continued coastal protection while considering community use and the natural values of the foreshore.
Community feedback gathered during the current consultation will be considered alongside technical investigations and statutory requirements as the options are assessed.
Design Work to Follow Consultation
The options assessment is the first stage of the renewal process.
A concept design will be shared with the community during the next design phase. Design work is scheduled for 2027 and 2028.
Construction is expected from 2031, subject to funding, approvals and unforeseen delays.
Published 3-August-2026
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