Most of the Pelican Point community is in favour of keeping a controversial beach access point to Bungaloo Bay open, the results of consultation by Grant District Council shows.

At least 41 people told council they want the public pathway between 176 and 176A Pelican Point Road to remain open, after a call went out for community consultation.

This came after an unofficial petition from a concerned Pelican Point local revealed nearly unanimous local support to keep beach access open, despite an early request from others to have it closed.

As the path is owned by the Department of Environment and Water, it was resolved council would consult locals and then refer the matter to the department. At least 26 locals voted against keeping the track open, including some that said vehicles entering the track were a safety hazard, with one person saying there was the risk of “real injury or death”.

“We regularly experience vehicles recklessly driving along the access track, with the intent to access the beach,” another person wrote. “Our children and pets have had several near misses with these manoeuvring and speeding vehicles, even after friendly reminders to slow down.”

Another advocated for roadside signage and minimalist fencing to be erected on the public pathway, which runs between two properties. While others were in favour of making it a pedestrian-only path. Council’s elected members were provided feedback from the consultation at the council’s last meeting.

Councillor Gavin Clarke moved council advise the Department of Environment and Water there was strong community support for the beach access track to remain open for cars, boats and pedestrians.

Cr Clarke also moved the correspondence be referred to the Department of Environment and Water, with the report seconded by Councillor Brad Mann.