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Avalon Beach Water Quality Stays ‘Very Good’ While Mona Vale Beach Downgraded

A new report on the water quality of beaches around NSW showed that Avalon Beach has maintained its “Very Good” standing. The report also indicated some fluctuations, notably the downgrading of Mona Vale Beach and ongoing issues with Narrabeen Lagoon.

Per the NSW State of the Beaches 2022-2023 report, released by the Minister for the Environment, Avalon Beach, along with Palm Beach and Whale Beach, sustained its water quality rating. This achievement is particularly impressive given the adverse weather conditions during the reporting period.

Mona Vale Beach, a popular coastal destination, has been downgraded from “Very Good” to “Good” due to an increase in faecal contamination. This drop in water quality can be attributed to heavy rainfall and potential pollution sources. The latest data shows elevated Enterococci levels, occasionally exceeding safe swimming limits, especially after light rain events.

The report also highlighted that almost all monitored beaches in NSW had excellent water quality, which represents an increase from 94 per cent in the previous year, despite the region experiencing record rainfall and flooding during the reporting period.

Several other beaches have been upgraded in the report, with Coledale, Fingal Bay, South Stockton Beach, and Malua Bay achieving higher water quality grades. Two other beaches, Toowoon Bay and Caseys Beach, have been upgraded to “Good”.

Estuarine Swimming Sites and Their Challenges

Meanwhile, estuarine swimming sites, including Narrabeen Lagoon (Birdwood Park) Lagoon and Bilarong Reserve Lagoon, continue to face water quality challenges. Both lagoons were rated as “Poor” in water quality, as in the previous year’s report.

Birdwood Park, located at the entrance of Narrabeen Lagoon, is influenced by wet weather events and whether the lagoon is open to the ocean, making it susceptible to faecal contamination from lagoon discharge. Bilarong Reserve, on the other hand, retains pollution inputs due to its distance from the lagoon entrance and limited flushing by clean ocean water.

The report underscores that water quality at these lagoon sites is generally suitable for swimming during dry weather, with a high percentage of samples within safe swimming limits. However, after rainfall, Enterococci levels consistently exceeded safe limits.

Animal and Human Faecal Contamination

Contamination of recreational waters with faecal material from both animal and human sources can pose significant health risks to beachgoers. Common pathogens found in these waters include bacteria, protozoans, and viruses, which can lead to gastroenteritis and other infections.

Vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, individuals with compromised immune systems, tourists, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are at greater risk of microbial infections when exposed to contaminated water.

Impact of Wastewater Treatment Plants

Wastewater treatment plants, such as the Warriewood Wastewater Treatment Plant, have been identified as potential sources of faecal contamination at some beaches. Enterococci levels at Warriewood Beach have steadily risen, despite the report indicating that the plant’s capacity is not constrained.

The ongoing impact of these treatment plants and other pollution sources remains a concern, with the report highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and measures to address pollution and maintain water quality standards.

Actions Taken and Future Plans

Efforts to address water quality issues at certain beaches include sand clearance operations at the Narrabeen Lagoon entrance. A change in strategy, with more frequent but smaller sand clearance operations, aims to maintain water quality and prevent prolonged closures of the lagoon entrance. This approach, recently adopted by the council, reflects a commitment to resolving ongoing water quality challenges in the area.

Despite some challenges, the majority of beaches in NSW continue to offer safe and excellent water quality for swimmers, and the State of the Beaches report serves as a valuable resource for beachgoers, providing real-time information and guidance on beach conditions, especially after rainfall events.

For more detailed information on beach water quality and specific ratings, you can refer to the full report.

Avalon Customer Contact Centre to Permanently Close

Did you know that despite efforts to the contrary, plans to close the Avalon Customer Contact Centre will now move forward?

Following a decision that enjoys majority support, the centre will cease to operate by November 2023. However, the move has not been without its share of opposition.

The Avalon Preservation Association (APA) expressed concerns about the diminishing services available to the residents of Avalon and its surrounding areas.

Craig Boaden, President of the APA, highlighted that the closure of the customer service centre was part of a broader trend of service reductions that have been impacting the community. Boaden emphasized that not everyone relies on the internet for their transactions and questioned the decision to eliminate a service that served a vital role for many residents.

The recommendation to close the Avalon Customer Contact Centre was presented by Council staff, citing that the centre had an average footfall of only 13 people per day.

David Kerr, the Director of Community & Belonging at Northern Beaches Council, outlined that the cost of each visit to the centre was significantly higher compared to other locations, amounting to nearly $90 per visit as opposed to $16 at alternate centres, such as in Dee Why and Mona Vale. The closure is expected to result in an annual cost saving of approximately $270,000 for Council.

Cr Miranda Korzy (Greens) challenged the projected savings, expressing concerns about potential job redundancies and the allocation of the staff to handle incoming phone calls.

She argued that the cost savings might not be as significant as estimated. On the other hand, Cr Sarah Grattan (Manly Ward), pointed out the distribution of services across different Council wards and the relatively low footfall at the Avalon centre.

Ms Grattan underscored that the service will not be cancelled. Instead, it will be moved to a nearby location as there is convenient public transportation available between Avalon and Mona Vale.

She also said there’s a need to make challenging decisions occasionally to achieve cost savings and subsequently channel those funds back into the community. However, she believes that decisions should be made in consultation with the community to identify a more beneficial utilisation of this Council property.

Pittwater Ward Cr Michael Gencher, who was among those advocating for deferral, inserted a rider on the motion that opened the door for exploring alternative uses of the space once the customer service centre is closed. He emphasized the importance of making decisions in the community’s best interests and repurposing the space to cater to other community needs.

The final decision to close the Avalon Customer Service Centre, with the provision to explore alternative community services for the space, was approved by most of the councillors.

Published 24-Aug-2023

The Evolution of Avalon’s Iconic Rock Pool: From Blown-Up Rocks to Baywatch

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council / northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Did you know that in the late 90s, a few episodes of the popular American action drama television series, Baywatch, were filmed at the Avalon rock pool? Get to know more about the history of one of the most popular swimming spots in Northern Beaches.

Avalon Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque beaches on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and at the southern end of the beach lies the Avalon Rock Pool. The rock pool has become an icon of the Northern Beaches and a popular spot for photographers, with its stunning location where waves crash over the walls. The pool is surrounded by rocky cliffs, and the area has undergone many changes since the rock pool was first built.

Avalon Rock Pool: From inception to expansion

The rock pool is 25 meters long and was built in 1917, thanks to the efforts of the residents and developer Arthur J. Small. Small was responsible for many early subdivisions in Avalon and pushed for the construction of the pool. The council agreed to build the pool upon receiving a donation of £30 from local residents. The pool was excavated into the rock shelf, which was a roughly rectangular shape, measuring about 12 m × 5.5 m.

Throughout its history, the Avalon rock pool has undergone multiple transformations and expansions. In 1922, the pool was extended by 5.5 meters, accompanied by the addition of a timber dressing shed for ladies.

Barbara Ratte (nee Sworder) at Avalon Rock pool c1920 | Photo credit: Northern Beaches Council Library Local Studies, Record Number: AV-129 / northernbeaches.recollect.net.au

Subsequent developments in the late 1920s involved deepening the pool by demolishing rocks to create a larger swimming area, complemented by the construction of protective walls. In 1937, further expansion took place, resulting in a pool that now spans approximately 30 meters in length and is enclosed by sturdy, high concrete walls.

In May 1938, the council estimated the cost of a children’s pool at £75, but lack of funds delayed the project. The following year, the council committed to building the 8 m × 5 m children’s pool, which was completed by August. Subsequent improvements took place in 1967 and the late 1970s, including repairs to the northeastern side and the concreting of the pool’s floor.

The Baywatch backlash

In 1998, Avalon boasted a population of over 9,000 residents and caught the attention of the producers of the popular American soap opera Baywatch. Several episodes of the show were filmed at the Avalon rock pool, adding a touch of glamour to the serene location.

However, controversy arose when the Baywatch crew unexpectedly detonated a yacht near the pool, causing alarm among the community. Swimmers were hurriedly asked to vacate the pool to accommodate a rescue scene being filmed. Unfortunately, in the commotion, a woman in her eighties sustained an arm injury, promptly attended to by the TV crew.

The proposal to turn Avalon into the primary filming location for the entire Baywatch series, spanning seven months a year for six years, triggered concerns among local residents. Worried about increased weekend visitors and restricted access to the beach and pool, an Anti-Baywatch Action group rallied support, collecting petition signatures.

Strong negative sentiments expressed at a council meeting led to the abandonment of further filming plans in Avalon, with the production relocating to Hawaii.

Avalon Rock Pool today

The Evolution of Avalon's Iconic Rock Pool: From Blown-Up Rocks to Baywatch — Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council / northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Today, the rock pool is a popular destination for swimmers, surfers, and photographers, and it continues to be maintained and updated by the local council. The area around the pool has also been improved over the years, with a wire fence installed at the base of the cliff to trap falling rocks and protect bathers from potential hazards.

It features a shallow toddler pool for little ones to enjoy. After a refreshing swim, treat yourself to a nourishing snack at one of the nearby local cafes. To access the rockpool, make your way from the carpark off Barrenjoey Road, where pay-and-display parking is available.

Published 13-May-2023

Avalon Beach Named As One Of The Safest Northern Beaches Suburbs

Avalon Beach has been named as one of the safest northern beaches suburbs, based on the latest data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR).

Read: Demand Surges in Avalon Property Market as Buyers Discover ‘Paradise’

According to BOCSAR’s latest crime report, which was recorded between January 2022 and December 2022, Avalon Beach only had a total of 100 serious offences, which included incidents of home theft, car theft and assault.

In the entire Northern Beaches area, violent offences have reduced by 6.2 per cent whilst property offences have diminished by 12. 5 per cent on a five-year trend.

Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon Beach (Photo credit: Google Street View)

In the last 12 months, however, the two crime categories with the large increases were car thefts, which grew to 17 per cent in 2021 and retail theft with a 23.7 per cent increase in the same year.

In an official statement, BOCSAR said the rate of offending for many crimes was interrupted by the pandemic but the number of crimes for car theft and retail theft are now starting to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Berowra Heights, considered as one the safest northern beaches suburbs, recorded the lowest number of serious crimes, with only 24 in the previous year, with a population of 5,458 people. The three leading types of serious crimes recorded in Berowra Heights were malicious damage, assault, and stealing from dwelling.

Read: Keeping Cats Safe at Home Program Launches in Avalon, 10 NSW LGAs

Other suburbs with the lowest serious crime rates include Beecroft (57 serious offences), Cherrybrook (98 serious offences), and West Pennant Hills (95), Fairlight (38), Wahroonga (160), and St Ives (137).

Meanwhile, the areas with the highest rates of serious crime in 2022 included the Sydney CBD which consists of the suburbs of Haymarket, The Rocks, Barangaroo, Millers Point, Dawes Point, with 1559 assaults, 260 sexual assaults, and 608 incidents of malicious damage to property.

Published 8-April-2023

Premises in Avalon Beach Are Among One Million Additional Homes and Businesses to Be Eligible for NBN Full-Fibre Upgrade

Photo credit: fancycrave1 from Pixabay

One million additional homes and businesses across Australia, including premises in Avalon Beach, will be eligible for a full-fibre upgrade as part of NBN Co’s ongoing upgrade program.

National Broadband Network (NBN) and the Australian Government have recently announced the rollout of additional homes and businesses that will get an upgrade to full-fibre broadband connection by ordering an eligible wholesale speed tier (with up to 58 per cent located in regional areas and the rest in metro areas)

A full-fibre broadband connection offers access to higher speed tiers which means a better and more reliable internet experience including faster downloads and uploads, faster game upgrades, and faster streaming.

NBN Co said that it expects eligible homes and businesses within these suburbs will be able to access a full-fibre broadband upgrade from 2024 whilst the remaining locations to be upgraded are expected to be announced by early 2024.

Up to 10 million premises across Australia or about 90 per cent are targeted to get access to NBN Home Ultrafast with wholesale download speeds of 500 Mbps to close to 1 Gps by the end of 2025.

To trigger an upgrade, customers at eligible premises need to place an order with a retailer which is based on one of NBN’s three highest residential wholesale speed tiers.

“Today’s announcement is good news for customers living and working in more than one million homes and businesses across Australia because they will soon be able to access the fastest residential speeds available on the nbn network,” Kathrine Dyer, Chief Operating Officer at NBN, said.

“We are unlocking social and economic benefits across Australia by pushing fibre deeper into communities. Fibre is inherently more capable of delivering faster upload and download speeds, is generally more reliable than copper connections and reduces our ongoing maintenance and operating costs.

“So far, we have identified the suburbs and towns across Australia where customers living and working in around 3 million premises currently served by nbn Fibre to the Node will be able to access full fibre upgrades by the end of 2025.

“In just six years data use has tripled on the nbn network – and that exponential growth is expected to continue as customer demands increase to meet new technology.”

To find out if you’re eligible for a full-fibre upgrade register at nbn.com.au/FTTPupgrade.

New South Wales suburbs and towns where additional homes and businesses will be eligible for full fibre:

Adamstown*, Adamstown Heights, Airds, Albury*, Alexandria*, Allambie Heights, Ashmont, Avalon Beach*, Avoca Beach

Bangalee, Bar Beach, Barnsley, Barrack Heights*, Basin View, Bathurst*, Belmont North*, Beresfield, Bilgola Plateau, Blackbutt*, Blackheath, Blayney, Blue Haven*, Bolwarra Heights, Bonnells Bay*, Booragul, Bowral*, Bowraville, Bradbury*, Broadmeadow, Budgewoi, Buff Point*, Bundanoon, Bungendore

Calala*, Callala Bay*, Callala Beach*, Campbelltown*, Cardiff, Casino, Castle Hill*, Caves Beach*, Cessnock, Charlestown*, Chinderah, Clyde, Coledale, Cooks Hill*, Coolangatta, Cooma, Coonabarabran, Cooranbong, Corowa*, Cowra*, Cringila, Cronulla*, Crosslands

Dalmeny*, Darlinghurst*, Dee Why, Denhams Beach, Double Bay, Dubbo*

East Albury*, East Ballina*, East Tamworth, Eden, Edgeworth*, Elderslie*, Eleebana*, Elermore Vale, Epping, Erina*

Figtree*, Fingal Head, Forbes, Forster*

Gateshead*, Gerroa, Gilgandra, Gladesville, Glen Innes, Glendale, Glenfield Park*, Glenmore Park*, Glenroy, Gorokan*, Goulburn*, Grafton, Granville, Griffith*, Gulgong, Gunnedah, Gwynneville

Halekulani, Hamilton*, Harrington, Haywards Bay, Helensburgh, Hillsborough, Hillvue*, Hinchinbrook, Holmesville, Homebush West, Hunters Hill*

Islington*

Jamisontown, Jerrabomberra*, Jindabyne

Kanwal*, Kariong*, Katoomba*, Keiraville*, Kelso*, Kensington, Killingworth, Kincumber*, Kings Langley, Kingscliff*, Kingsford, Kirrawee, Kooringal*, Kotara, Kurri Kurri

Lakelands, Lambton*, Laurieton, Lavington*, Leura, Lisarow, Lithgow, Long Beach

Macksville, Macquarie Hills*, Maianbar, Maitland*, Maloneys Beach, Mannering Park, Marmong Point, Maryland*, Medowie, Merewether*, Merimbula, Middleton Grange, Mitchell, Mittagong, Mollymook, Mollymook Beach*, Montefiores, Moree*, Moss Vale, Mount Austin, Mount Hutton, Mount Kembla, Mount Warrigal*, Mudgee*, Murwillumbah,

Nambucca Heads, Narara*, Narrabri, Narrandera, Narrawallee, New Lambton*, Niagara

Park, Norah Head, North Albury*, North Batemans Bay, North Kellyville, North Lambton, North Manly, North Nowra*, North Tamworth, Nowra

Oak Flats*, Old Erowal Bay, Orange*, Ourimbah, Oxley Vale

Parklea, Picton, Port Kembla*, Port Macquarie*, Primbee

Quakers Hill

Raymond Terrace*, Rhodes, Rozelle, Ruse*, Rutherford*

San Remo*, Sanctuary Point*, Scone, Shell Cove, Shoalhaven Heads*, Shortland, Singleton*, Skennars Head, Smithfield*, South Albury, South Bathurst, South Grafton, South Nowra, South Tamworth, South Turramurra, South West Rocks, Speers Point, Spring Farm, St Helens Park*, Stockton, Sunshine Bay, Surfside, Surry Hills, Sussex Inlet*, Swansea

Tahmoor, Telarah, Terranora, Terrigal*, Thirlmere, Thirroul*, Thornton*, Thurgoona*, Tuggerah, Tuggerawong, Tumut, Tweed Heads South*

Ulladulla*, Umina Beach*

Valentine

Wadalba, Wagga Wagga*, Waitara, Wallabi Point, Wallsend, Wangi Wangi, Warners Bay*, Warrawong*, Watanobbi*, Wauchope*, Wentworth Falls, West Albury, West Bathurst*, West Kempsey, West Tamworth*, West Wallsend, West Wyalong, Wetherill Park*, Whitebridge, Windale, Windradyne*, Wollongbar, Wollstonecraft, Wombarra, Woodcroft, Woolwich*, Woronora Heights, Wyee, Wyoming*, Wyongah

Yamba*, Yass, Young

#Indicates identification of additional footprint in suburbs and towns previously announced as part of NBN Co and the Victorian Government’s co-investment program.

The upgrade program was boosted by the Australian Government’s additional $2.4 billion investment.

Published 3-March-2023

Mural Artist Daniel Hend Paints Amazing Landscape for Avalon RSL

Photo Credit: Daniel Hend/Facebook

Have you seen the beautiful mural on display on the wall of the Bowling Green Lane across the carpark at the Avalon RSL?

The amazing artwork is the handiwork of mural artist Daniel Hend who was tasked to paint the Australian Bush landscape and depict the stunning wildlife, flora and fauna of Avalon.

Mr Hend was contacted by Jasmine Hopcraft, who organised the fundraiser to get this project done. She saw a post from the artist offering his services at one of the community groups.

Ms Hopcraft thought that the Avalon community would be proud to have artwork depicting their amazing surrounding and believed they could raise $3,000 for the project. The Avalon RSL has contributed $1,000 to kickstart Hend’s work.

Ms Hopcraft also tapped local ecologist Jayden Walsh for the painting’s vision, which features some of the wonderful residents of Avalon, such as the owls, possums, bush turkey, kookaburra, and king parrots. The ghosts of koalas, wallabies and echidnas will also feature in the mural. These animals were once inhabitants of the suburb but are no longer missing due to the effects of development and human settlement.

As a child, Mr Hend, originally from Mullumbimby, learned to paint landscapes from his father, Len Hend and he developed his own style and familiarity with many mediums to become a multi-faceted visual artist.

Mr Hend has won heaps of recognition for his creativity and has raised funds by painting. He has murals and paintings in NSW, Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania.

His work on the Avalon RSL mural is expected to be completed by the end of February 2023.

Published 13 February 2023

Community Calls To Halt Avalon Shared Space Works

Residents, businesses, and community groups have been requesting to halt works for the Avalon Shared Space trial, as the project has reportedly caused enormous inconvenience in the area.

Read: Shared Space Trial For Old Barrenjoey Road Commences

Avalon Preservation Association (APA), a not-for-profit volunteer community group, stated in its bulletin for December 2022 that they are extremely disappointed with the delays in construction and the fact that the trial has not yet begun.

Artist’s impression of the Avalon Shared Space (Photo credit: Northern Beaches Council)

“The delay has meant construction work has been pushed into the busy Christmas holiday period. Retailers are angry. Drivers are angry. Residents are confused,” APA stated.

The shared space trial was proposed by the Northern Beaches Council, with support from the NSW Government, to enable greater pedestrian opportunities through expanded footpaths, new landscaping and additional seating areas.

Based on the timeline for the shared spaces for Avalon Beach, preparation for the trial will commence in October and is expected to be completed in December 2022, with the trial due to run for at least six months.

However, the works already came with a few issues, including the large queues of traffic farming on Avalon Parade and the lack of traffic controllers when the northbound lane on Old Barrenjoey Road was first closed.

According to Pittwater Councillor Miranda Korzy, the new project has been marred by multiple problems, including the new laying of bitumen on Old Barrenjoey Rd which has resulted in flooding of the road and inundation of a pedestrian ramp.

“I have just asked the council’s CEO to immediately halt work on the Avalon shared roadway project and to carry out an emergency assessment of it and emergency measures to decrease the flood risk – increased by the road works – to businesses in Old Barrenjoey Road. This should include provision of sandbags until the work is done,” said Cr Korzy in a social media post.

Read: Pedestrian Shared Space Trial in Avalon Receives $500-K Funding

Cr Korzy is requesting to halt work and carry out an assessment of the design, planning process, and compliance with agreed schedules, including start and finish times.

The Councillor is also asking for emergency measures to be taken to prevent flooding occurring in business premises in Old Barrenjoey Rd.

Shared Space Trial For Old Barrenjoey Road Commences

The intersection of Old Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade in Avalon Beach will undergo some traffic changes, as part of a trial to make it a safer space for pedestrians.

Read: Keoride On Demand Transport Now Permanent in Avalon, Northern Beaches

By December 2022, the northern part of Old Barrenjoey Rd (near Woolworths) will be turned into a one-way southbound and a 10 km/h shared zone in a section of the road will also be implemented.

Other main changes include:

removing nine on-street parking spaces to provide safer pedestrian access
improving pedestrian crossings at the intersection of Old Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade
widening footpaths to create more space for pedestrians
additional seating and plants
adjusting bus and taxi services
relocating loading zones.

The trial, which commenced last October is proposed to be completed this December. The trial will run for at least six months.

As part of the project, council will remove the existing pedestrian crossing located in Old Barrenjoey Road, north of Avalon Parade. This area will be part of the new 10km Shared Zone.

A 10 km Shared Zone is a road or network of roads where the road space is shared safely by vehicles and pedestrians, with a maximum speed limit of 10 km/h.

Meanwhile, authorities will change the existing unrestricted parking in Barrenjoey Road, east side, between Avalon Parade and Old Barrenjoey Road to 4P (four hour parking) 7:00 am – 7:00 pm everyday.

With nine on-street parking spaces set to be removed, locals are advised to park in the Avalon Beach commercial area, Avalon Beach carpark, Woolworths carpark and the Council carpark located in Avalon Parade.

Aside from delivering a safer space for pedestrians, the trial aims to provide a more people-focused experience for locals and visitors to the village, including improving the streetscape with plants and new furniture.

These changes were made possible through a $500,000 funding through the State Government’s Streets as Shared Spaces program, which aims to transform and re-energise streets during the day and as part of the 24-hour economy, to get NSW moving again.

Read: Woolworths Avalon Beach Not Switching to Metro Store Format

In 2021, a similar change was implemented at The Strand in Dee Why, also under the Streets as Shared Spaces program.

Plan for New Cycleways Along Avalon Beach Scrapped

Photo Credit: Hans / Pixabay

The plan to have new cycleways along Avalon Beach has been scrapped by the Northern Beaches Council, following some backlash from resident groups.

My Place: Avalon – Avalon Beach Place Plan, which identifies improvements and programs for the area, was officially adopted during a Council meeting held in late July 2022.

However, the proposed cycleways within the Avalon Beach village were scrapped, with Council recommending that the proposal be “re-investigated” within 12 months, following unfavourable feedback from the community towards the project.

The public exhibition had received 736 submissions on the draft Place Plan, many of which were critical of the proposed cycleway. The key issues raised include:

The concrete divide between the cycleway and the road would be a trip hazard
Extending the cycleway across Barrenjoey Road would be dangerous for cyclists and motorists
The cycleway will disrupt residents getting in and out of Old Barrenjoey Rd (south)
Intermingling cyclists is a dangerous outcome, for the elderly and young pedestrians
Oppose the bike path due to the loss of trees
The cycleway will result in the loss of 30 parking spaces
A dedicated cycle path on Old Barrenjoey Rd would be a disaster and only cause high anxiety between the community and the Lycra brigade who travel at high speed
Some community support for the Alternate Avalon Bike Path Plan – Avalon Preservation Association that locates the cycleway in the laneways

A Council document stated that the cycleway would have provided the community with a safe cycling route and that it was developed as a response to the community’s expressed desire for active transport options apart from vehicles.

It likewise stated that the design did not incorporate a long concrete divide between the cycle path and car parking spaces as there are other materials and structures that could be used as well as breaks that would allow prams/wheelchairs and walkers access.

“No parking spaces would have been lost as a direct consequence of the proposed cycleway and no disabled car parking spaces will be removed as part of the design concept. In total 11 parking spaces will be removed from Old Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade to cater for the intersection redesign and incorporated footpath widening,” the document added.

“We recognise the local community is passionate about the environment and protection of trees and vegetation and the design of the cycleway was undertaken to minimise tree removal. However, as part of the design, six trees in the centre of the Old Barrenjoey Road (south) and three small trees along the western footpath edge need to be removed.”

“As part of the Place Plan extensive additional planting would be undertaken throughout the village,” Council stated as a response to the concerns over the loss of trees as part of the Place Plan.

Considering the concerns raised, the proposed cycleway will not proceed despite the mitigation measures available.

“Our 10-year plan for Avalon Beach sets out both longer-term projects such as redesigning the Old Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade intersection and quick win projects that have already been completed such as improving Dunbar Park playground in 2021,” Mayor Regan said..

Council will trial temporary southbound shared along Old Barrenjoey Road between Avalon Parade and Woolworths car park entrance. Before a permanent shared zone is considered, however, the community will be invited to have their say.

Improvements on the Avalon Beach streetscape will also be part of the plan including resurfacing footpaths and roads, landscaping, installing new street furniture, increasing the opportunities for art in public spaces and performance spaces, and improving lighting. Greening of the area will also be a major component of the plan.

Plans for a 170-Seat Cafe on Whale Beach Blocked

Plans to redevelop a Whale Beach property into private residential units with a 170-seat cafe for the community have been disapproved.

In January 2021, the Cassar family, who are well-known in the aviation tourism industry, received approval to demolish their old apartment block and redevelop the site as a mixed-use facility via REV2021/0034.

Initially, the family wanted two eateries on their property. One will be located by Whale Beach Rd and the other will be at the Surf Rd entrance.

However, the planners asked the Cassars to merge both eateries into one site on the ground floor to contain the potential traffic and noise.

Thus, the family submitted modifications (MOD2021/0983) to the approved proposal a year later but was met with strong objections from the locals due to the size of the cafe. More than 120 submissions were filed with the Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel.

“This type of development will destroy the lifestyle of those who live there. It will not simply be dreading the weekends and yet another function, it will taint their week and how they feel about the place,” one local said, pointing out that Whale Beach’s total population is only 250.

The Whale Beach Property Surf Life Saving Club, which is next door to the property, also submitted its objection, citing the following reasons.

“We have remained neutral on the proposed development until now, as it presented no obvious consequences to our core objectives. However, with this variation, we have concerns that a further substantial restaurant or function centre for 170 patrons at Whale Beach will overwhelm the available infrastructure.

There is almost no public transport to the area, and none during weekends.
There is virtually zero access for full-sized passenger buses, especially in summer weekends
when the proposed venue would have peak usage.
There is very limited street parking.
Parking in the NBC beach parking area is also limited, and often unavailable during summer.
The proposed development caters for minimal additional parking.
Already all Whale Beach local roads are reduced to one lane of traffic most of the time.
Occasionally surf safety incidents require quick access for emergency vehicles, which would be seriously compromised by traffic congestion caused by the proposed venue.”

Despite recommended consolidation of the eateries, which the Cassar family complied with, the Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel decided, in early August 2022, to reject the modifications as failed to demonstrate how they will “not create unacceptable traffic and safety impacts in the area.”

Anthony Cassar said that, whether the eateries were in one large ground floor area or two separate smaller areas in the building, it was always going to be a 170-seater. He insisted that they are not asking to increase the numbers of patrons but their plans for the redevelopment will make a big improvement into an eyesore.