Construction works have resumed on the iconic Coast Walk, spanning 36 kilometres from Manly to Palm Beach including the Newport to Avalon link. Much of the construction work is already complete, despite previous unforeseen delays.
The coastal walkway is the centrepice project of the $32.6-million ‘Connecting the Northern Beaches’ initiative. The program will provide communities with an integrated link to major B-Line transport hubs and services whilst showcasing the breathtaking coastline views and artwork installations.
Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 restrictions and Council taking careful considerations of community inputs in finalising the designs, the Coast Walk is moving forward with the Manly to Newport pathway already open for pedestrians and cyclists.
The Newport to Avalon section of the project is divided into three sections in which draft concepts were exhibited for public feedback in late 2020.
Newport Beach to The Serpentine, Bilgola Beach
This section of the pedestrian and cycle link spans from the northern end of Newport Beach carpark to The Serpentine, Bilgola Beach. To minimise the impact of the project on vegetation, the width of the pathway was reduced to three metres from 3.5 metres.
Streets As Shared Spaces: The Serpentine, Bilgola
Council proposed a 12-month trial of walking and cycling-friendly link within The Serpentine, Bilgola.
The proposed trial included:
- more space for cycling with cycle lanes on the uphill sections of The Serpentine
- a 10 km/h posted speed limit
- planter boxes, pavement paintings and marked parking bays
- regular check-ins with the community to monitor how the trial is going.
Community consultation was held in November 2020 and after considering the outcomes of the public engagement, council decided not to proceed with the trial.
The Serpentine, Bilgola Beach to Avalon Beach
This third section of the pedestrian and cycle link is between the northern intersection of The Serpentine and Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade in Avalon. The link will feature a 2.5m-wide shared path from The Serpentine to Surfside Avenue as well as a new path on eastern side of Surfside Avenue.
The Newport to Avalon link is expected to be completed by late 2022.
Funding for the Connecting Northern Beaches project was made possible through the Stronger Communities Fund – an NSW Government grant provided to the newly merged councils – and further investment by the NSW Government through its B-Line, walking, and cycling programs.
