Council will close East Esplanade for maintenance from Friday to repair wear and tear to the area caused by increased usage during lockdown.

The area will be returfed, fertilised, aerated and top dressed, ready to reopen ahead of summer.

The works are part of Council’s annual Turf Renovation Program and follow the completion of similar works undertaken in mid-September on the grassed area at North Steyne. South Steyne turf renovation is also due to begin soon, with Dee Why programmed for November.

Returfing is done during the spring months as the weather warms, giving the turf the best opportunity to establish.

Mayor Michael Regan said Council was taking advantage of the reopening of venues to begin the works at East Esplanade.

“East Esplanade has been highly impacted during COVID and the wear and tear is evident.

“With the local pubs and restaurants reopening this week we expect less demand for picnics in this area which gives us an opportunity to get in and get this work done now.

“We look forward to having the area reopened for people to enjoy ahead of summer.”

The area will be fenced for approximately three weeks and expected to reopen for use in early November, weather dependent.