Northern Beaches Council has made a start on the iconic coastal walkway with the section from Palm Beach Wharf to Governor Phillip Park going out to tender.

Administrator Dick Persson AM said Council has received strong feedback from the community to improve pedestrian access and safety in an area that is very popular with local and visitors.

“The only existing pedestrian route between Palm Beach Wharf and Governor Phillip Park is via Barrenjoey Road.

“Pedestrian access is difficult with no continuous designated footpath, which forces pedestrians out onto the road, at some points.

“After 30 years of waiting, this iconic project will provide huge benefits for the local community and visitors alike by providing better access and a safe way to walk from the wharf to the beach,” Mr Persson said.

The newly amalgamated Northern Beaches Council funded the project under the $32.6 million Connecting Northern Beaches program, utilising funds from the Stronger Communities Fund made available by the State Government through the merger process.                                       

With the help of a community-based working group, Council developed concept designs for a walkway from the Palm Beach Ferry Wharf to Governor Phillip Park, which forms part of the larger Connecting Northern Beaches iconic coastal walkway from Palm Beach to Manly.

Palm Beach Whale Beach Association President Dr Richard West said the community was delighted that the walkway is progressing. 

“We have had concerns regarding pedestrian safety for over 40 years along this section of Barrenjoey Road and look forward to a dedicated walkway to improve pedestrian safety between the ferry wharf and Governor Phillip Park.”

The tender to build the walkway closes on Tuesday, 30 May. Council would like to have the walkway built before the 2017 Christmas holidays. Further information relating to the Palm Beach Walkway can be located at yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au