THE daily parade of people doing an about-face on the popular Charlie Uptin Walkway south-east of Port Macquarie’s Town Beach is set to continue a little while longer.
The path below Flagstaff Hill has been blocked since May, after severe weather and erosion undercut part of the embankment.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council says it knows “it has been missed”.
Director of Community, Planning and Environment Melissa Watkins said Council has now completed geotechnical investigations on the major storm-damaged section between Town Beach and Oxley Beach.
“There is no timeline yet on the commencement or completion of works, however we will update the community on this much-loved part of the Coastal Walk when there is a more definitive timeline.
“In the meantime, we ask pedestrians to continue to use the detour via Pacific Drive.”
However, as regulars of Salty Crew cafe on Town Beach can attest, dozens of people are missing the sign saying the pathway is closed and are making it halfway to the Flagstaff Hill Lookout before having to turn back.
They can be seen retracing their steps with looks of confusion and frustration.
The detour takes them around the back of the Marine Rescue Base, up the hill to Pacific Drive, then down to Oxley Beach.
The 9km Coastal Walk is one of Port Macquarie’s most popular attractions and with warm weather and school holidays coming up, it is likely to get even busier.
By Sue STEPHENSON
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