Mornington Peninsula Shire Council will install fencing around the site to prevent both locals and visitors alike from launching off the cliffs, which have become dangerously eroded.
“We are pleased to announce that council has voted for option three, with five clauses that reinforce the recognition of the value of The Pillars,” reported pillarscoastalwalk.org, who have been campaigning for action.
“Option three is to temporarily close the site, with a review after two years, with the addition of an authorised Officer to promote awareness and educate visitors on the need to close The Pillars for Safety/Environmental/Cultural Heritage Reasons.”
Recently, The Pillars cited their busiest day on record – clocking 800 visitors – signifying a shift from a ‘locals-only’ destination to a more widespread tourist phenomenon.
With increased foot traffic has come an increase in litter and vandalism, with locals collecting over 19 bags of rubbish as well as documenting graffiti, cigarette butts, used sanitary products and bottles of urine discarded at the site.
At the time of writing, 887 people have signed a petition for The Pillars to be immediately regarded as a State recognised conservation area, asking for “implementation of infrastructure for sustainable visitation, public enjoyment, and research.”
