Work on the reconstruction of Forty Baskets and Little Manly Tidal Pools is now complete just in time for the warmer weather.

Both pools were rebuilt under Council’s Tidal Pool Renewal Program.

Mayor Regan said the work means the iconic tidal pools can be enjoyed by future generations for years to come.

“These pools are incredibly popular, and I know locals and visitors will be lining up to take a dip.  Boaties will enjoy the new jetty and boarding stairs at Forty Baskets, improving safe access to the harbour.

“Anyone familiar with the pools will know they are known for their heritage and vast marine wildlife, which made this a delicate project. Council consulted widely with heritage experts before beginning reconstruction.”

The pools were rebuilt using more durable materials, which provide lower maintenance costs and prolong their life, while maintaining their heritage appearance.

High quality, strong netting replaced the existing shark bars as it is more environmentally friendly and provides additional habitat for sea life such as sea horses.

Steel piles wrapped in black HDPE was used to replace the existing wooden piles as it is more durable and will need to be replaced less often, meaning less disturbance to the sea-bed replacing piles and reducing ongoing maintenance costs.

During the reconstruction, Council contractors re-settled endangered seahorses to nearby areas of seagrass away from the construction zone.

“What is also nice about the reconstructions is that the pools will continue to provide habitat for species such as sea horses and pipe fish.”

Council took advice from marine scientists about the best way to protect the important sea grasses and threatened species in the area and a number of measures were successfully implemented to mitigate the impact of our works.