The Northern Beaches Hospital Precinct Structure Plan will deliver a new town centre with retail, commercial, social and recreational facilities, up to 5,360 new dwellings and 2,300 new jobs.

The plan will be presented to Northern Beaches Council at an Extraordinary Meeting on 1 August for endorsement.

Council Chief Executive Officer Mark Ferguson said the plan was the culmination of extensive community consultation and planning.

“This plan provides the overarching strategy for all future planning in Frenchs Forest and sets a 20 year vision for development and growth.

“It provides an exciting opportunity to create a once in a lifetime urban renewal opportunity on the Northern Beaches with a brand new town centre, new homes and jobs, all adjacent to the new Northern Beaches Hospital.

“The cornerstone will be a new, walkable and vibrant town centre where the community can meet, shop, dine and work day and night, enjoying a commercial, retail and recreational environment complemented by open spaces,” Mr Ferguson said.

A proposed new public high school catering for up to 2000 students and the retention of the Warringah Aquatic Centre are part of an innovative education and recreation precinct.

Other features includes a target of 10 to 15 per cent affordable rental housing and a range of economic development opportunities for local businesses.

“The Structure Plan also feature pedestrian and cycle infrastructure and medium and low density housing a 40 metre height limit on apartment buildings, which is slightly less than the 41.2m height of the new hospital. Building heights would be stepped or gently transitioned to ensure an enjoyable town centre feel.

“Because the State Government has made Frenchs Forest a Priority Precinct, the rezoning process will be fast-tracked so work can happen more expeditiously and can also be staged in line with the provision of other government services like transport,” Mr Ferguson said.

“In order to develop this area responsibly and to best manage the road network, we’re proposing a phased and managed approach to development that is dependent on the  State Government’s commitment and delivery of transport infrastructure, including a BRT and the Beaches Link Tunnel. 

The project will require some changes and upgrades to local roads to facilitate access, boost public transport and link to the new Beaches Link Tunnel.

The plan will also support and promote environmental sustainability principles including working towards a Green Star rating. Subject to further planning, development is likely to commence in two years.

Media enquires: media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au or 9942 2678