Northern Beaches Council has announced they’ve secured a huge amount of funding to deliver a series of transformative wharf upgrades.
Mayor Sue Heins says Council has secured substantial funding from the State and Federal Government to upgrade wharves at Mackerel Beach, Bayview and Currawong Beach, highlighting the importance of these upgrades for communities and visitors alike.
“Many of our most special locations are only accessible by boat, making the upkeep of these wharves both challenging and costly. These grants will enable us to improve safety, enhance accessibility, and support the vibrant local lifestyle enjoyed by so many on the Northern Beaches,” Mayor Heins said.
Community consultation for the Mackerel Beach Wharf upgrade has already been completed, with the final design and preparations now underway. Meanwhile, the proposed improvements for Currawong Beach Wharf and the Bayview Baths, wharf, and tidal pool are currently open for public feedback. Council encourages all residents to have their say and help shape the future of these much-loved community assets.
In delivering these projects, Council remains committed to protecting the unique natural environment that surrounds our aquatic areas. The wharves are located near important habitats for endangered and threatened species such as Posidonia sea grass and White’s seahorse. All construction activities will be carefully managed to minimise impact and safeguard these precious species.
“We are committed to working closely with our community to deliver upgrades that foster inclusion, improve safety, and protect our treasured environment. Your feedback is invaluable as we work together to build a better future for everyone,” said Mayor Heins.
Further information on the proposed works and locals can find opportunities to have their say at Council’s Your Say pages.
Mackerel Beach Wharf
The upgrading of Mackerel Beach Wharf will ensure it meets current engineering standards and improves accessibility for users and the local community.
Some key features of the upgrade include:
- extending the wharf by approximately 35m with a stepped and ramped platform similar to Palm Beach Wharf. This will provide improved access for ambulant and disabled users during all tides
- providing a dedicated bin storage area.
Funding for the upgrade includes a Federal Government grant of $938,000 and $1,470,466 from Transport for New South Wales.
Bayview Wharf
The Bayview Wharf structure has reached the end of its life and been no longer in service for safety reasons. This upgrade project will also provide a valuable opportunity to restore the tidal pool, which collapsed in 2007 and has remained unusable since. Rebuilding both will improve safety, access, and enjoyment for everyone in the community and consultation is open until Thursday 23 October.
Some key features of the upgrade include:
- new wharf
- new ramp/gangway and pontoon
- wharf extension to provide more dingy boat tie ups
- a kayak entry and exit point
- new wider tidal pool allowing for up to 25 metre lap swimming.
- accessibility upgrade improvements.
Funding for the upgrade includes a grant from Transport for New South Wales up to $594,625 and Council will also contribute an estimated $200,000 from the special variation to rates depending on the final cost of the project.
Currawong Wharf
Currawong Beach Wharf’s renewal aims to improve accessibility for users and the local community. Council is managing the works of this State-Heritage-listed site in association with the Office of Environment and Heritage and in alignment with the Conservation Management Plan for the area. Consultation is open until Monday 6 October.
Some key features of the upgrade include:
- a series of stepped platforms and ramps to allow wheelchair and ambulant access across the entire tidal range
- a design that complements the existing structure and is durable with regard to the surrounding marine environment, to ensure longevity and minimise maintenance requirements.
Funding for the upgrade includes a grant from Transport for New South Wales up to $1,108,026 and Council will also contribute an estimated $370,000 depending on the final cost of the works.
