The much loved Clontarf and Forty Baskets Tidal Pools will undergo urgent repairs commencing Monday 3 December.

Clontarf Park where the pool is located, is a regionally significant harbour foreshore reserve that extends from Sandy Bay, along Clontarf Beach to Clontarf Point. While Forty Baskets Beach is located in Manly Cove along The Spit to Manly walkway.

Both sites offer scenic harbour views, beach with swimming enclosure and pier, picnic & BBQ facilities, and a playground.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said both sites are highly valued locations.

“Both locations are extremely popular with residents as well as day visitors and tourists for swimming, picnicking and socialising.

“The works at both locations are essential for safety reasons. At Clontarf, the pool will be closed for approximately two weeks while Forty Baskets will still remain open but will have a floatation lane rope across the middle to keep people away from the work area,” he said.

Damaged piles and timbers will be replaced at Clontarf as well as replacement of mesh and shark bars, general cleaning and painting will occur. Further regular maintenance work is planned to continue when the pool is re-opened.

“At Forty Baskets, the collapsed section of pool will be removed and a temporary net installed in that area. General net repairs, cleaning and other maintenance tasks will also be carried out.

“Until the net is repaired around the entire pool, protection against marine animals such as sharks is limited. We’re advising swimmers to reconsider entering the water as it will be at your own risk.

“Every effort will be made to minimise any inconvenience to the public while works are proceeding. Your cooperation and patience will be greatly appreciated.” Mayor Regan said.

The delay in commencing works was as a result of Council needing to conduct studies and put measures in place due to the sensitive environment which homes endangered species such as sea horses.

All repairs are expected to be completed by 21st December 2018, weather permitting.

The works will occur Monday to Friday 7am-5pm and 8am-1pm Saturday (if required). There will be no work on Sunday.

Tidal pools at Manly Cove, Little Manly and Pickering Point will remain open.