The long-term needs for access to Waikouaiti beach were discussed by residents and Waikouaiti-Coast Community Board members at a special public meeting called by the board in Waikouaiti last week.
Erosion is encroaching on the road, the main access to the swimming and surfing beach, Matanaka House and the sports ground.
Dunedin City Council parks, recreation and aquatics group manager Richard Saunders said the council would continue to respond to any erosion that affected access and was working on a long-term plan for management of the area.
Waikouaiti Coast ward council Andrew Noone expressed concern about the future of Matanaka Dr if the erosion continued, while board chairman Gerard Collings said he was ''comfortable'' there was no immediate risk.
He successfully sought to ensure there would be community involvement in any planning.
The 17 residents who attended the meeting all wanted beach access retained.
They wanted their children and grandchildren to be able to enjoy the beach.
Mr Saunders was asked to bring back to a further public meeting options and costs for preserving Waikouaiti Beach .
If alternative access to the beach was required via an extension from Stewart St to the sports park, the community would be consulted, Mr Collings said.
The beach can also be accessed from Beach St and Edinburgh St, which both terminate there.
