Work on the new shared path linking Newport to The Serpentine at Bilgola Beach is progressing well, with the project on track for completion in September 2026, weather permitting.
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Construction began in September 2025, and the latest update from Northern Beaches officials showed crews are now working through the final stages of the project. The new off-road shared path will connect Newport with Bilgola via Eric Green Reserve and is designed for a range of users, including walkers, bike riders and people using mobility scooters.
Among the works now underway are the installation of the final fibreglass reinforced plastic platforms on elevated sections, concrete being poured for the last sections of on-ground path, and the installation of balustrades and handrails.
Crews are also completing the connection to the existing Bicentennial walkway at the Newport Beach car park, along with line marking and signage. While the path includes features such as handrails and a non-slip surface, Council says a fully accessible path with a compliant gradient cannot be provided throughout the entire route because of the natural terrain and space constraints.
Raised threshold takes shape
At The Serpentine, crews are also completing a raised threshold where the new shared path ends. The threshold is designed to provide a transition for bike riders onto The Serpentine and for walkers heading towards the existing walkway down to Bilgola Beach via the stairs.
The work requires a stop-go arrangement and part road closure, with traffic control in place to help people move safely around the work area.
Once the construction work is complete, contractors will largely demobilise from the site compound at the Newport Beach car park and continue with landscaping works. Low-impact lighting will also be incorporated along the route, while the path features a non-slip surface and handrails.
Northern Beaches officials said the project is intended to provide a safer, smoother connection between Newport and Bilgola away from traffic and steep terrain.
Night works scheduled
Further work is scheduled along Barrenjoey Road during the week beginning August 31. Four night shifts are planned from 8pm to 5am on Monday, August 31, Tuesday, September 1, Thursday, September 3 and Friday, September 4, weather permitting.
The overnight work is needed to safely backfill the length of the shared path along Barrenjoey Road using trucks and excavators. A stop-go slow closure of the southbound lane on Barrenjoey Road will be in place, with traffic management operating around the work area. Contractors have said they will minimise noise and disruption where possible.
If weather prevents the work from proceeding, the night shifts will be moved to the next available clear-weather window.
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The Newport to The Serpentine section is part of the broader Coast Walk project. Council is also finalising designs for future Bilgola works, including a connection between the beach car park and Allen Avenue, as well as a footpath and stairs linking the top of the Allen Avenue stairs to the roundabout on Barrenjoey Road.
Construction of those elements is anticipated to begin in 2027-28. Other proposed sections, including connections from The Serpentine towards Surfside Avenue, Surfside Avenue to Avalon Beach, and Whale Beach to Palm Beach via Whale Beach Road, still require revised designs, further consultation, and significant funding.
Published 29-August-2026
