The wharfs at Mackerel Beach, Bayview, and Currawong are set for significant upgrades thanks to Federal and State Government grants and additional funding from Council’s special variation to rates.
Maintaining these unique spots, some only reachable by boat, is no easy feat, and keeping them safe and accessible for locals and visitors alike can get pricey. Thanks to these generous grants, Council is set to make some much-needed improvements to these wharfs, making life easier and safer for everyone who uses them.
Right now, plans for the Mackerel Beach wharf are steaming ahead: community consultation is complete, and the project is out for tender. Meanwhile, Currawong Beach Wharf and the Bayview wharf and tidal pool are still at the stage where the community can have their say - so everyone’s input is encouraged.
The waters near these wharfs are also pretty special, hosting protected and endangered species like the rare Posidonia seagrass and White’s seahorse. The Council is making sure that all works keep these delicate habitats safe, especially during the sensitive breeding season.
If you’re keen to find out more or have your say, pop over to the Northern Beaches Council Your Say pages.
Mackerel Beach Wharf
The upgrading of Mackerel Beach Wharf will ensure it meets current engineering standards and improves accessibility for users and the local community.
Some key features of the upgrade include:
- extending the wharf by approximately 35m with a stepped and ramped platform similar to Palm Beach Wharf. This will provide improved access for ambulant and disabled users during all tides.
- providing a dedicated bin storage area.
Funding for the upgrade includes a Federal Government grant of $938,000 and $1,470,466 from Transport for New South Wales.
Bayview Wharf
The Bayview Wharf upgrade is needed as the structure has reached the end of its life and was taken out of service for safety reasons. This project also provides a valuable opportunity to restore the tidal pool, which collapsed in 2007 and has remained unusable since. Rebuilding both will improve safety, access, and enjoyment for everyone in the community and consultation is open until Thursday 23 October.
Some key features of the upgrade include:
- new wharf
- new ramp/gangway and pontoon
- wharf extension to provide more dingy boat tie ups
- a kayak entry and exit point
- new wider tidal pool allowing for up to 25 metre lap swimming.
- accessibility upgrade improvements
Funding for the upgrade includes a grant from Transport for New South Wales up to $594,625 and Council will also contribute an estimated $200,000 from the special variation to rates depending on the final cost of the project.
Currawong Wharf
Currawong Beach Wharf is being renewed to improve accessibility for users and the local community. The Currawong site is listed on the State Heritage Register and Council is managing the works sensitively in association with the Office of Environment and Heritage and in alignment with the Conservation Management Plan for the area. Consultation is open until Monday 6 October.
Some key features of the upgrade include:
- a series of stepped platforms and ramps to allow wheelchair and ambulant access across the entire tidal range
- a design that complements the existing structure and is durable with regard to the surrounding marine environment, to ensure longevity and minimise maintenance requirements.
Funding for the upgrade includes a grant from Transport for New South Wales up to $1,108,026 and Council will also contribute an estimated $370,000 depending on the final cost of the works.