No cracking pace on sea wall repairs

An expert team’s major repairs on Marlston Waterfront’s deteriorating sea wall have stalled despite the situation being declared an emergency.

The South Western Times last week revealed that cracks in the waterfront’s boardwalk had prompted an emergency response set to cost ratepayers $375,000 to fly in experts from Queensland amid fears the wall would collapse and bring down a two-storey building.

The team was expected to arrive last week but as of yesterday had still not started the repair works.

A City of Bunbury spokeswoman confirmed the team was now scheduled to start work today.

While the area has now been fenced off, Mayor Gary Brennan said the sea wall did not pose an immediate threat to surrounding businesses.

The building at risk is home to Taffys candy store, The Bayview Bar, a glass gallery and studio and the Aristos restaurant.

“Works have already begun to stabilise the sea wall and will be finished promptly to ensure it is business as usual along the Marlston Waterfront,” Mr Brennan said.

“I applaud our officers in their proactive approach to ensuring these urgent works were carried out immediately.”

It is not known how long the ground under the boardwalk has been deteriorating and if the damage is linked to a storm which caused significant damage to the waterfront’s jetty in June last year.