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The Northern Beaches needs more public halls. That's no surprise to most of us but now it's official, with a Council report finding a lack of community spaces for hire. As well some existing facilities are in poor condition, or away from central locations with poor public transport or parking. It turns out Manly Ward is worst affected, with relatively fewer community centres than anywhere else on the Peninsula. At the moment Manly has no real community space and Balgowlah doesn't have a single council-managed hall for hire.  The good news is that a major renovation of Manly Youth Centre in Kangaroo St (pictured above) is already underway. The $1M revamp will be finished next year and will create a new home for Community Northern Beaches (previously Manly Community Centre), when their existing home in Wentworth St returns to Manly Public School. A new community hub fo local support services will also be created. The council will also develop a masterplan to transform the Seaforth Community Centre into a multipurpose facility, and investigate whether Council-owned properties in Balgowlah town centre can be re-purposed for community space. Good For Manly President Candy Bingham said Manly Town Hall also has a major role to play. "My council initiative has now opened up the beautiful first-floor hall for public hire," Deputy Mayor Bingham said. "And in the long-term I'm working to transform the space into a venue that Manly can be proud of. A performance space, art gallery, museum or cinema are all possibilities. It's very exciting." Images: Town Hall exterior; First floor former council chambers. You can download the Council's Draft Community Centres Strategy (Oct 2019) here: 
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UPDATE: Pominent Australian architecture firm COX Architecture has been appointed lead consultant for the transformation of old Manly Hospital site. The firm, which won a competitive tender for the job, will be responsible for the masterplan and rezoning of the site to create a new 'health and wellbeing' precinct. The firm will work with Property NSW, NSW Health, National Parks & Wildlife Service and community representatives and is expected to deliver a masterplan to Northern Beaches Council next year. The plan will also be put on exhibition for public comment. COX Architecture is a multi-disciplinary firm which integrates architecture, planning, urban design and interior design. It has been involved in many large-scale projects, including the recently-released concept design for the passenger terminal at Western Sydney International Airport 3/10/2019: Heritage buildings will be preserved and a masterplan will be developed for the old Manly Hospital site. That's the promise from Property NSW after a tour of the site for community group members today.  Project manager Tahlee Smith gave a guarantee that all heritage listed elements on site would be preserved, including most of the 'main building' (where admissions and emergency used to be) and the gateway arches which marked the original hospital entrance (both pictured below). She said the buildings would be restored to their former glory, with the old entrance reinstated, if possible, as the gateway to the new precinct. Part of Building No 15 (previously Outpatients and Physiotherapy), Parkhill Cottage (previously respite care for Alzheimer's patients) and a long sandstone wall next to the site of the proposed Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice will also be retained. As well, the well-known five-sided kiosk building may be retained despite its not having a heritage status. Images: The proposed site of the new hospice, and artist's impression of the completed building.
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19/4/2019 Post:
Those residents living in areas with restricted parking are about to have their parking permits reviewed in an effort by the Northern Beaches Council to bring the long-running scheme in line with Roads & Maritime Services Parking Permit Mandatory Guidelines.
Currently there are less than 5000 on-street parking spaces, with over 10,000 permits issued.
The ten areas affected are Little Manly, Balgowlah, Tower Hill, Tower Hill Extension, Ocean Beach, The Isthmus (CBD), Fairy Bower, Ivanhoe Park, Ivanhoe Park Extension and Ethel Street.
The Guidelines state that only residents who have no off-street parking (or a residence that could not be reasonably modified to provide on-site parking space(s), are entitled to an on street permit - and only one.
Also, the number of permits are not to exceed the number of spaces available!
This will be a big task for council staff who will explore the issues residents face in finding parking, while also providing parking for tradies and visitors and regular carers of the elderly or young children.
The first step will be consulting with existing permit holders as well as undertaking an audit of off-street parking options. Current permit holders will receive an email from Council in the coming weeks inviting their input, and face-to-face meetings will be available at the Manly Town Hall.
- Mon 17 Jun, 9 – 11am
- Tue 18 Jun, 3 – 5pm
- Wed 19 Jun, 5 – 7pm
- Thu 20 Jun, 12 – 2pm
- Sat 22 Jun, 9 – 11am
A copy of the RMS Guidelines are attached.
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Manly Town Hall could again be the heart of the community under a plan to open the top floor for community events. The spacious area (pictured below) served for many years as Manly's Council Chambers.
Northern Beaches Councillor Candy Bingham, who has been driving the proposal, said the stately building was the perfect place to bring new life to Manly Village.
"Manly needs more variety in what people can do after dark," Cr Bingham said. "You can go to the pub, or go out to eat - we don't even have a cinema anymore."
She said the upstairs hall could be used in the short term for talks, film screening or concerts, and in the longer term it could be transformed into an art gallery, museum, cinema or performance space.
"There are some really exciting ideas out there," Cr Bingham said.
While the present building was opened in November 1937, the Manly Council Chambers have stood on that site since 1909 as a gateway to Manly. It has been the home of Manly Council until amalgamation and the formation of Northern Beaches Council in 2016.
With the new council based in Dee Why, in the former Warringah Council chambers, the upstairs section of Manly Town Hall is underused. The downstairs houses a Council Service Centre, which the Council promises will always remain in Manly, plus council department offices.
"Manly needs more variety in what people can do after dark," Cr Bingham said. "You can go to the pub, or go out to eat - we don't even have a cinema anymore."
She said the upstairs hall could be used in the short term for talks, film screening or concerts, and in the longer term it could be transformed into an art gallery, museum, cinema or performance space.
"There are some really exciting ideas out there," Cr Bingham said.
While the present building was opened in November 1937, the Manly Council Chambers have stood on that site since 1909 as a gateway to Manly. It has been the home of Manly Council until amalgamation and the formation of Northern Beaches Council in 2016.
With the new council based in Dee Why, in the former Warringah Council chambers, the upstairs section of Manly Town Hall is underused. The downstairs houses a Council Service Centre, which the Council promises will always remain in Manly, plus council department offices.
Many people are familiar with the exterior of the heritage-listed building, with its Corinthian columns and imposing façade, but may be less aware of the elegant art deco interior of the upper floor. The wide staircase to the first floor features a stained-glass skylight and leads up to a gallery lined with portraits of councillors past who have served Manly. The high-ceilinged Council Chamber still retains many of its original features including dark wood doors, wainscoting and ceiling light fittings.
The proposal to make use of the venue in the short-term was passed at the August Council meeting. The plan, which will include hiring charges and what types of uses are appropriate, will soon be put out on public consultation.
"This fantastic venue has the potential to transform Manly into a much more cultural and exciting place to live," Cr Bingham said.
How do you see Manly Town Hall?
We are delighted to present ManlyTalks - a series of talks to be held right here in Manly. We'll have thought-leaders speaking on big ideas, with a focus on how they affect us and our community and what we can do to participate or push for change. The talks will educate and inspire, they will spark ideas and start conversations.
The series, which starts this month, kicks off with Australia's best known environmentalist Prof Tim Flannery speaking on 'State of the Climate: What next for us?'
Prof Flannery, 2007 Australian of the Year and Climate Commissioner from 2011 to 2013, is the author of 32 books, including the internationally acclaimed The Weather Makers. His focus is the connection between climate change, global warming, and human activity, and specifically what we need to do to halt current warming trends and begin the long process of reversing the damage we have already done.
We were thrilled at the huge community response to our first talk, with tickets selling out within hours of being released. We will have more exciting speakers next year.
Manly Talks is organized by Good For Manly to inform and inspire our community and start conversations.
Prof Flannery, 2007 Australian of the Year and Climate Commissioner from 2011 to 2013, is the author of 32 books, including the internationally acclaimed The Weather Makers. His focus is the connection between climate change, global warming, and human activity, and specifically what we need to do to halt current warming trends and begin the long process of reversing the damage we have already done.
We were thrilled at the huge community response to our first talk, with tickets selling out within hours of being released. We will have more exciting speakers next year.
Manly Talks is organized by Good For Manly to inform and inspire our community and start conversations.
It’s taken seven years but this week Manly’s village green - Ivanhoe Park & Manly Oval - was granted State Heritage status. The listing means the site is recognised in perpetuity as a historic community hub that is permanently off-limits for developers. It also becomes eligible for State Heritage Grants.
Images: Manly Oval historic gates; playing field.
Special Minister of State Don Harwin, who announced the decision this morning, said the park was a very worthy candidate meeting all seven heritage listing criteria, including Aboriginal heritage.
He also praised the passion and persistence of the community in following the process through. "One of the factors was the community esteem," Mr Harwin said. "There is an incredible community feeling for Ivanhoe Park. There were fifty submissions in support, and none against.
"You baked the cake and I'm putting on the icing. The park is now on the State Heritage Register. Congratulations - you've done it!"
The announcement was made in front of an enthusiastic crowd, including Federal MP Zali Steggall, State MP James Griffin, Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan, and all three Manly Ward councillors - Candy Bingham, Sarah Grattan and Pat Daley.
Special Minister of State Don Harwin, who announced the decision this morning, said the park was a very worthy candidate meeting all seven heritage listing criteria, including Aboriginal heritage.
He also praised the passion and persistence of the community in following the process through. "One of the factors was the community esteem," Mr Harwin said. "There is an incredible community feeling for Ivanhoe Park. There were fifty submissions in support, and none against.
"You baked the cake and I'm putting on the icing. The park is now on the State Heritage Register. Congratulations - you've done it!"
The announcement was made in front of an enthusiastic crowd, including Federal MP Zali Steggall, State MP James Griffin, Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan, and all three Manly Ward councillors - Candy Bingham, Sarah Grattan and Pat Daley.
Images - MPs Don Harwin & James Griffin address the crowd; (L to R) Crs Candy Bingham & Michael Regan, State MP James Griffin, Cr Sarah Grattan & Fed MP Zali Steggall.
Manly leaders were quick to stress that heritage status does not mean the park will be frozen in ice. Changes are still possible, but will need to take account of the site's heritage significance and be approved by the State Heritage Council.
"This is a wonderful vindication of everything that we've been fighting for for so many years," Good For Manly President and Northern Beaches councillor Candy Bingham said. "I would like to congratulate everyone who has put so much energy into defending this precious place - particularly the Save Manly Oval Alliance, led by Jack Steggall and Roger Freney and the incredible research and documentation work led by Judy Lambert.
"Now we have an opportunity to springboard off the new listing and make Ivanhoe Park even more special. I am putting forward a motion for council to prepare a Heritage Conservation Plan and a masterplan for the whole area, respecting our heritage but restoring or improving facilities to better serve the community.
Manly leaders were quick to stress that heritage status does not mean the park will be frozen in ice. Changes are still possible, but will need to take account of the site's heritage significance and be approved by the State Heritage Council.
"This is a wonderful vindication of everything that we've been fighting for for so many years," Good For Manly President and Northern Beaches councillor Candy Bingham said. "I would like to congratulate everyone who has put so much energy into defending this precious place - particularly the Save Manly Oval Alliance, led by Jack Steggall and Roger Freney and the incredible research and documentation work led by Judy Lambert.
"Now we have an opportunity to springboard off the new listing and make Ivanhoe Park even more special. I am putting forward a motion for council to prepare a Heritage Conservation Plan and a masterplan for the whole area, respecting our heritage but restoring or improving facilities to better serve the community.
Image: Ivanhoe Park is a mixed use, tree filled 'pleasure ground'.
The fight to protect the park and sporting facilities started when Good For Manly opposed the former Manly Council’s ill-conceived plan to build a carpark under the Oval.
The battle was taken up by community group Save Manly Oval Alliance (SMOA), led by Jack Steggall, Roger Freney & Judy Lambert. Support has also come from Northern Beaches Council Mayor Michael Regan & State MP James Griffin & Federal MP Zali Steggall, whose father Jack was president of SMOA.
The park has also had the enthusiastic support of Friends of Ivanhoe Park Botanic Gardens, led by Denise and Lloyd Keen, who have successfully lobbied for council beautification works and have made the local community more aware of the green space at the heart of our CBD.
Ivanhoe Park was established in the 1850's by Henry Gilbert Smith, an early visionary who saw the potential of Manly as a place for recreation and leisure for the people of New South Wales. He established a Victorian style 'pleasure ground' with a variety of sporting and community facilities in a park land setting. As one of the few pleasure grounds that have survived intact to the present day, Ivanhoe Park is particularly precious.
The park was the site of a famous speech by 'the Father of Federation' Sir Henry Parkes, who in 1888 presented his vision for a federation commonwealth of Australian states.
It was also home to many sporting clubs that, since their formation in the 1870s and 1880s, have contributed many state and international players to Australia's cricket and rugby teams. And it was the practice ground for the Aboriginal cricketers who made up the first indigenous sports team to tour England as Australian representatives, back in 1868.
Click here for more on Ivanhoe Park's fascinating history from Manly Daily history buff John Morcombe.
The fight to protect the park and sporting facilities started when Good For Manly opposed the former Manly Council’s ill-conceived plan to build a carpark under the Oval.
The battle was taken up by community group Save Manly Oval Alliance (SMOA), led by Jack Steggall, Roger Freney & Judy Lambert. Support has also come from Northern Beaches Council Mayor Michael Regan & State MP James Griffin & Federal MP Zali Steggall, whose father Jack was president of SMOA.
The park has also had the enthusiastic support of Friends of Ivanhoe Park Botanic Gardens, led by Denise and Lloyd Keen, who have successfully lobbied for council beautification works and have made the local community more aware of the green space at the heart of our CBD.
Ivanhoe Park was established in the 1850's by Henry Gilbert Smith, an early visionary who saw the potential of Manly as a place for recreation and leisure for the people of New South Wales. He established a Victorian style 'pleasure ground' with a variety of sporting and community facilities in a park land setting. As one of the few pleasure grounds that have survived intact to the present day, Ivanhoe Park is particularly precious.
The park was the site of a famous speech by 'the Father of Federation' Sir Henry Parkes, who in 1888 presented his vision for a federation commonwealth of Australian states.
It was also home to many sporting clubs that, since their formation in the 1870s and 1880s, have contributed many state and international players to Australia's cricket and rugby teams. And it was the practice ground for the Aboriginal cricketers who made up the first indigenous sports team to tour England as Australian representatives, back in 1868.
Click here for more on Ivanhoe Park's fascinating history from Manly Daily history buff John Morcombe.
A revamp of Little Manly Reserves is one step closer after Northern Beaches Council completed a second round of community consultation this month.
But not much will change after strong community feedback that Little Manly is almost perfect as it is. Council staff have tailored the draft masterplan to make ‘minor adjustments’ only, meaning the area’s laid-back ‘look and feel’ will be kept and much-loved Little Manly Kiosk will stay the same.
But not much will change after strong community feedback that Little Manly is almost perfect as it is. Council staff have tailored the draft masterplan to make ‘minor adjustments’ only, meaning the area’s laid-back ‘look and feel’ will be kept and much-loved Little Manly Kiosk will stay the same.
Potential ‘adjustments’ include;
New toilet facilities at Little Manly Point park, located at the top near the carpark. The end of the point, now used on both sides for fishing and barbeques, will be upgraded with landscaping, shade trees, sandstone wall seating – like East Esplanade, and viewing seats. The existing playground will get a revamp.
At Little Manly beach itself, a new path will be built in front of the kiosk to fix the choke point caused by the accessible access path going right through the middle of the café. There will also be more shade trees, but none blocking the Marshall St harbour sight lines, new decking around the Norfolk Island pine, and better access to the beach down the main steps. Repositioning the swings, and adding more seating, depends on community feedback.
Images clockwise from top left: two views of Little Manly Point, space around this Norfolk Is pine to be enhanced by decking, Little Manly beach from Stuart St with clear harbour sight lines.
New toilet facilities at Little Manly Point park, located at the top near the carpark. The end of the point, now used on both sides for fishing and barbeques, will be upgraded with landscaping, shade trees, sandstone wall seating – like East Esplanade, and viewing seats. The existing playground will get a revamp.
At Little Manly beach itself, a new path will be built in front of the kiosk to fix the choke point caused by the accessible access path going right through the middle of the café. There will also be more shade trees, but none blocking the Marshall St harbour sight lines, new decking around the Norfolk Island pine, and better access to the beach down the main steps. Repositioning the swings, and adding more seating, depends on community feedback.
Images clockwise from top left: two views of Little Manly Point, space around this Norfolk Is pine to be enhanced by decking, Little Manly beach from Stuart St with clear harbour sight lines.
The unclear future of No 40 Stuart St – the council-owned block next to the open space – has generated community concern that it was about to be sold off. That won’t happen, according to Cr Candy Bingham with the Northern Beaches Council committed to protecting public open space. The situation will continue as it is – with No 40 rented out, and generating about $100,000 per annum, until the loan to purchase the property is substantially paid off.
The other council-owned house – No 34 Stuart St – is also up for review, with council canvassing ideas for community use of the property. Any new use would be limited to recreational or educational activities, with final selection to be made by a public tender process. Improvements are planned for the nearby kayak and boat storage areas to make better use of space.
Other recommendations include widening a narrow section of the footpath on the beach side of Stuart St, and a possible new footpath through No 34 to move pedestrians away from busy Craig Ave. Parking in Stuart St may be reduced from eight hours to four and traffic calming put in place. In the water, powered boats may be kept out of swimming areas.
Images: Boat ramp access to beach, narrow footpath on Craig Ave
The other council-owned house – No 34 Stuart St – is also up for review, with council canvassing ideas for community use of the property. Any new use would be limited to recreational or educational activities, with final selection to be made by a public tender process. Improvements are planned for the nearby kayak and boat storage areas to make better use of space.
Other recommendations include widening a narrow section of the footpath on the beach side of Stuart St, and a possible new footpath through No 34 to move pedestrians away from busy Craig Ave. Parking in Stuart St may be reduced from eight hours to four and traffic calming put in place. In the water, powered boats may be kept out of swimming areas.
Images: Boat ramp access to beach, narrow footpath on Craig Ave
Northern Beaches Counillor Candy Bingham praised staff for listening to the community as they drew up the plan.
“Most people love this area as it is, so what they have done very effectively is that they haven’t changed things so much as enhanced things," Cr Bingham said. “The opportunity of this round of consultation is that it will just tweak things and I’m sure the community will be absolutely delighted with the final outcome”.
Council staff will now review submissions from the consultation process and complete the Masterplan accordingly. It will be presented to Council for adoption later this year.
“Most people love this area as it is, so what they have done very effectively is that they haven’t changed things so much as enhanced things," Cr Bingham said. “The opportunity of this round of consultation is that it will just tweak things and I’m sure the community will be absolutely delighted with the final outcome”.
Council staff will now review submissions from the consultation process and complete the Masterplan accordingly. It will be presented to Council for adoption later this year.
After giving us their new landmark building in Wentworth St, children's charity Royal Far West has announced plans for a $100 million transformation of their central Manly site.
The organisation has promised to deliver an "iconic" health and wellbeing campus, and has already signed two of Australia's best-known architects to create the design - internationally acclaimed Glenn Murcutt, who grew up in Clontarf, and Angelo Candalepas.
The organisation has promised to deliver an "iconic" health and wellbeing campus, and has already signed two of Australia's best-known architects to create the design - internationally acclaimed Glenn Murcutt, who grew up in Clontarf, and Angelo Candalepas.
The new Centre for Country Kids on Wentworth St, and Old Royal Far West buildings on South Steyne
The rebuild will enable the charity to expand its work - caring for country kids with health and developmental problems.
Royal Far West will not sell any part of the beachfront site and will work within the approved development application which is already in place. That means building heights will be restricted to five stories with a set back for street frontages, and eight levels at the back of the site.
The ageing red-brick buildings on Wentworth St and South Steyne will be demolished, with the new campus likely to include retail and commercial space and residential accommodation.
Business Director Jacqui Emery said the organisation needed to expand to be able to help the increasing number of country kids with health and developmental needs.
She said more than 100,000 needy children in remote or regional Australia had very limited, or no access to paediatric specialists. Their needs included developmental problems such as autism or attention deficit disorders; mental health issues; or speech, movement, dietary or dental problems.
A first step has already been taken with the purpose-built Centre for Country Kids opening its doors on Wentworth St late last year.
The stylish $43 million building integrates treatment, recreation and school rooms in a welcoming, open-plan design. Assessment and treatment rooms are bright-coloured and well-equipped and class rooms and rec areas are chock full of games, toys and activity areas.
Royal Far West will not sell any part of the beachfront site and will work within the approved development application which is already in place. That means building heights will be restricted to five stories with a set back for street frontages, and eight levels at the back of the site.
The ageing red-brick buildings on Wentworth St and South Steyne will be demolished, with the new campus likely to include retail and commercial space and residential accommodation.
Business Director Jacqui Emery said the organisation needed to expand to be able to help the increasing number of country kids with health and developmental needs.
She said more than 100,000 needy children in remote or regional Australia had very limited, or no access to paediatric specialists. Their needs included developmental problems such as autism or attention deficit disorders; mental health issues; or speech, movement, dietary or dental problems.
A first step has already been taken with the purpose-built Centre for Country Kids opening its doors on Wentworth St late last year.
The stylish $43 million building integrates treatment, recreation and school rooms in a welcoming, open-plan design. Assessment and treatment rooms are bright-coloured and well-equipped and class rooms and rec areas are chock full of games, toys and activity areas.
Clockwise from top right: Multi-purpose outdoor play space; school room for very young children; history wall in lobby; school room for primary students. All in new Centre for Country Kids.
It's where country children spend their days, usually accompanied by their parents and other siblings, during a week-long assessment or treatment program. Treatment is holistic, with Royal Far West employing 150 staff, including paediatricians, dentists, speech and occupational therapists, psychologists, dieticians and nurses. Parents, who often feel isolated and overwhelmed, are supported too. The program, which includes all meals and five nights accomodation, is valued at $7000 per family but is provided free of charge.
While in-house treatment is required for complex problems, many children can be treated remotely using 'Telecare'. This Skype-like system allows clinicians to go virtually anywhere in Australia and help 400 children a week. It's the way of the future, and will be vastly increased in the new campus.
Although Royal Far West does receive some State and Federal government funding, the charity needs to raise a lot of its own income. At present that's mainly from donations, although the new Wentworth St centre has smart new conference rooms and gathering spaces for hire. And in Drummond House next door, reasonably priced accomodation is available for rent on weekends and during school holidays. But it's not enough.
"We're a charity," Ms Emery said. "We always want to do more. There are so many kids out there that we want to help. If we can't intervene when they're young, many of them don't engage in school, don't finish, don't get proper jobs, and end up on the street or at the police station. If we don't do it, who will?"
She said that while the charity will keep its Manly site, which is its biggest asset, adding retail and residential units would enormously help its income stream. At the same time the organisation is determined to deliver something "absolutely beautiful and iconic" to rejuvenate the south end of the beach.
A DA is expected to be lodged in the next two years with plenty of community consultation along the way.
While in-house treatment is required for complex problems, many children can be treated remotely using 'Telecare'. This Skype-like system allows clinicians to go virtually anywhere in Australia and help 400 children a week. It's the way of the future, and will be vastly increased in the new campus.
Although Royal Far West does receive some State and Federal government funding, the charity needs to raise a lot of its own income. At present that's mainly from donations, although the new Wentworth St centre has smart new conference rooms and gathering spaces for hire. And in Drummond House next door, reasonably priced accomodation is available for rent on weekends and during school holidays. But it's not enough.
"We're a charity," Ms Emery said. "We always want to do more. There are so many kids out there that we want to help. If we can't intervene when they're young, many of them don't engage in school, don't finish, don't get proper jobs, and end up on the street or at the police station. If we don't do it, who will?"
She said that while the charity will keep its Manly site, which is its biggest asset, adding retail and residential units would enormously help its income stream. At the same time the organisation is determined to deliver something "absolutely beautiful and iconic" to rejuvenate the south end of the beach.
A DA is expected to be lodged in the next two years with plenty of community consultation along the way.
Aug 22: More details have emerged on redevelopment possibilities. They include independent leasehold oceanfront units for the over 55s, “high integrity” restaurants, a health centre, childcare centre and even a 24-hour triage centre. More information here.
It's 5 years since the popular Manly Cinema closed, and it has been empty since.
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The original cinema on the site, The Embassay, was built in 1933. Manly Twin Cinema closed in 1913.
Manly needs a cinema, according to Northern Beaches Councillor Candy Bingham. She is taking action to see what can be done to reinstate the Manly Cinema, which closed in 2013 and has sat vacant ever since.
Cr Bingham is asking Council to clarify if it was a condition of consent that a cinema is part of the new high-rise development built in 1988, and whether there is any action Council can take to reinstate a cinema in Manly.
According to Councillor Bingham, the owner of the premises lives overseas. Although there are business people wanting to operate the cinema various attempts to contact the owner have not been successful.
“Manly is more than beaches and restaurants. We need to provide other forms of entertainment and things for people to do, particularly for our youth.
“Locals are always asking me when is the Cinema reopening – it’s time we did something about making that happen” Councillor Bingham added.
For more than 82 years there was a cinema screening movies at 45 East Esplanade. The first was the Embassy built in 1933. This was later closed for renovations and reopened in 1960 as the Odeon following the closure of the original Odeon Cinema in The Corso. The ‘new’ Odeon was demolished to make way for commercial premises and apartments. Manly Twin Cinema became part of that new development and opened in 1988.
What are your memories of the Cinemas in Manly? Do you remember the Odeon?
Manly needs a cinema, according to Northern Beaches Councillor Candy Bingham. She is taking action to see what can be done to reinstate the Manly Cinema, which closed in 2013 and has sat vacant ever since.
Cr Bingham is asking Council to clarify if it was a condition of consent that a cinema is part of the new high-rise development built in 1988, and whether there is any action Council can take to reinstate a cinema in Manly.
According to Councillor Bingham, the owner of the premises lives overseas. Although there are business people wanting to operate the cinema various attempts to contact the owner have not been successful.
“Manly is more than beaches and restaurants. We need to provide other forms of entertainment and things for people to do, particularly for our youth.
“Locals are always asking me when is the Cinema reopening – it’s time we did something about making that happen” Councillor Bingham added.
For more than 82 years there was a cinema screening movies at 45 East Esplanade. The first was the Embassy built in 1933. This was later closed for renovations and reopened in 1960 as the Odeon following the closure of the original Odeon Cinema in The Corso. The ‘new’ Odeon was demolished to make way for commercial premises and apartments. Manly Twin Cinema became part of that new development and opened in 1988.
What are your memories of the Cinemas in Manly? Do you remember the Odeon?
MANLY'S iconic boardwalk and harbour pool were destroyed in a storm almost 50 years ago. But they have never been forgotten.
Now the effort to bring back the much-loved swim spot is getting serious, with Northern Beaches Council preparing a masterplan for the pool and surrounding West Esplanade area. The plan will include a feasibility study into reinstating the boardwalk and harbour pool, upgrading the area around Manly Art Gallery and investigating the future of the former Sea Life Sanctuary aquarium building.
Now the effort to bring back the much-loved swim spot is getting serious, with Northern Beaches Council preparing a masterplan for the pool and surrounding West Esplanade area. The plan will include a feasibility study into reinstating the boardwalk and harbour pool, upgrading the area around Manly Art Gallery and investigating the future of the former Sea Life Sanctuary aquarium building.
Northern Beaches Cr Candy Bingham, a longtime champion of the boardwalk project, has worked with eco architect Maurice Patten to develop a concept plan for the area.
It includes a boardwalk stretching from Manly Wharf to the former Sea Life Sanctuary; a huge calm-water swimming area with pontoons and a lap-swimming section; an environmental sea-grass area and a little penguin protected zone. On land there would be landscaping and a focus on art, education and culture, anchored by the existing Manly Art Gallery and Museum.
“I’m so excited that this is moving forward,” Cr Bingham said. “There was such a gap when the boardwalk was destroyed, and it’s never really been filled.”
It includes a boardwalk stretching from Manly Wharf to the former Sea Life Sanctuary; a huge calm-water swimming area with pontoons and a lap-swimming section; an environmental sea-grass area and a little penguin protected zone. On land there would be landscaping and a focus on art, education and culture, anchored by the existing Manly Art Gallery and Museum.
“I’m so excited that this is moving forward,” Cr Bingham said. “There was such a gap when the boardwalk was destroyed, and it’s never really been filled.”
“Manly has always been famous for its ocean beaches, but a lot of people prefer to swim where it’s a bit more sheltered, and they know they are safe from sharks.
“And we'll have a beautiful timber boardwalk running to Federation Point - where the Sea Life Sanctuary was - which gets overlooked. We have the art gallery and cafes and restaurants in a wonderful location there. A boardwalk would make it easy for tourists, and locals, to spread out more and enjoy that part of Manly as well. “
The masterplan will look at environmental outcomes, initial costings, ongoing costs, and aesthetics. It will include extensive community consultation and ultimately determine whether the ambitious boardwalk and pool project will go ahead.
The plan, which should be completed by May, will be partly funded by a $100,000 State Heritage Grant secured by local MP James Griffin.
“And we'll have a beautiful timber boardwalk running to Federation Point - where the Sea Life Sanctuary was - which gets overlooked. We have the art gallery and cafes and restaurants in a wonderful location there. A boardwalk would make it easy for tourists, and locals, to spread out more and enjoy that part of Manly as well. “
The masterplan will look at environmental outcomes, initial costings, ongoing costs, and aesthetics. It will include extensive community consultation and ultimately determine whether the ambitious boardwalk and pool project will go ahead.
The plan, which should be completed by May, will be partly funded by a $100,000 State Heritage Grant secured by local MP James Griffin.
So much happening in Manly at the moment. Here's the interesting bits.
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Plastic debris will be transformed to useful plastic products in a game-changing set-up coming to the Northern Beaches this year. The key is a plastic shredding machine that will convert plastic rubbish to small fragments, to be used as building products, filaments or cord, or 3D printed into almost anything.
The project will be run by Surfrider Foundation Manly, which has received a $50,000 State Government grant. Surfrider will use the funds to set up a community-based Ocean Recovery Hub, centred around a Shruder - a compact, industrial machine that shreds plastic. The grant will also cover a 3D printer and appropriate training.
As well as recycling plastic waste, Surfrider aims to deliver
Images: Shruder machine; plastic shreds
As well as recycling plastic waste, Surfrider aims to deliver
- Interactive waste education programs at school, community and corporate level, including mobile displays at community events
- Micro-business opportunities for manufacturers working with recycled plastic
- A platform for local businesses to offset their plastic use
- Diversion of plastic waste from landfill, and from inappropriate recycling streams.
Images: Shruder machine; plastic shreds
In early 2019, Surfrider Foundation Manly will be looking for suitable venues and partners to establish the Ocean Recovery Hub and start to ‘close the loop’ on the plastic economy. Contact Surfrider Manly here.
Manly's getting its crayweed back.
Crayweed, a form of seaweed, will be replanted in Cabbage Tree Bay in a locally-funded SIMS (Sydney Institute of Marine Science) initiative.
The crayweed, which formed dense underwater forests along the Sydney coastline, provides food and a habitat for fish and marine invertebrates. But it disappeared sometime during the 1980s due to high pollution levels. The ocean is clean now, but the forests won't come back without our help.
Local residents Dorset Sutton and Jenny Lim Sutton are supporting a replanting operation in Cabbage Tree Bay. Operation Crayweed Manly has now been approved by the Department of Primary Industries and will start early in 2019. Healthy adult crayweed from existing populations will be transplanted to deforested rocks in Cabbage Tree Bay and attached using biodegradable mesh. The technique has been successful in many other Sydney sites, with crayweed reestablishing itself and recolonising the area. And once the crayweed is back, crayfish, abalone and a huge array of other fish and invertebrates come back too.
More details here, including opportunities to help.
The crayweed, which formed dense underwater forests along the Sydney coastline, provides food and a habitat for fish and marine invertebrates. But it disappeared sometime during the 1980s due to high pollution levels. The ocean is clean now, but the forests won't come back without our help.
Local residents Dorset Sutton and Jenny Lim Sutton are supporting a replanting operation in Cabbage Tree Bay. Operation Crayweed Manly has now been approved by the Department of Primary Industries and will start early in 2019. Healthy adult crayweed from existing populations will be transplanted to deforested rocks in Cabbage Tree Bay and attached using biodegradable mesh. The technique has been successful in many other Sydney sites, with crayweed reestablishing itself and recolonising the area. And once the crayweed is back, crayfish, abalone and a huge array of other fish and invertebrates come back too.
More details here, including opportunities to help.
It is concerning that we are losing more and more of our precious bushland and open space on the Northern Beaches.
Manly Warringah War Memorial Park (Manly Dam) is a good example. Part of this magnificent park, which is crown land, is zoned residential due to an anomaly when the Warringah LEP was updated in 2011.
Two other parcels, also zoned residential, are owned by Sydney Water and share the boundary with the park on three sides, and should be incorporated into the Park.
Manly Warringah War Memorial Park (Manly Dam) is a good example. Part of this magnificent park, which is crown land, is zoned residential due to an anomaly when the Warringah LEP was updated in 2011.
Two other parcels, also zoned residential, are owned by Sydney Water and share the boundary with the park on three sides, and should be incorporated into the Park.
 The red hatching (opposite) shows three parcels which are Crown Land and a further two parcels which are owned by Sydney Water. All are currently zoned residential. |  |
In a letter to the Manly Vale Public School in October 2016 the then NSW Premier, Mike Baird, said that “the NSW Planning Minister is currently looking at ways to increase the conservation status of bushland within the Manly Warringah Memorial Park. One option is the conversion of the Park into a state park”. (That happened on 7th April 2017.)
The then Premier also said “the Government will transfer a parcel of land owned by Sydney Water at Seaforth and adjacent to the War Memorial Park, back to the park.” I think everyone just assumed this had been done. But it hasn’t happened yet – and we need to act now to protect it.
With the support of the Mayor, Michael Regan, Manly Ward Councillor Candy Bingham, has been successful in having the Council agree to commence the planning process to have these parcels of land rezoned from Residential to Recreational. And it is hoped that Sydney Water will also agree to have their land included in the boundaries of the Park.
This corridor of land which is situated at the north east corner of the intersectin of the Wakehurst Parkway and Kirkwood Street, Seaforth, is not pristine bush, but it serves the purpose of protecting the integrity of the park. It includes a part of the Wakehurst Golf Course, a section is traversed by the circuit trail for cycling and walking; and the land plays an important function in protecting the Manly Dam Catchment, and is part of a wildlife corridor.
A further two parcels of land on the fringe of the park in King Street Manly Vale and Wandella Road, Allambie, are also to planned to be rezoned to recreational.
The Save Manly Dam Community Group also need to be acknowledged for their tireless work to protect this special park.
It will take years for the Northern Beaches LEP to be completed which is why we need to get on with this rezoning from Residential back to Recreational to protect this very important area from redevelopment.
The then Premier also said “the Government will transfer a parcel of land owned by Sydney Water at Seaforth and adjacent to the War Memorial Park, back to the park.” I think everyone just assumed this had been done. But it hasn’t happened yet – and we need to act now to protect it.
With the support of the Mayor, Michael Regan, Manly Ward Councillor Candy Bingham, has been successful in having the Council agree to commence the planning process to have these parcels of land rezoned from Residential to Recreational. And it is hoped that Sydney Water will also agree to have their land included in the boundaries of the Park.
This corridor of land which is situated at the north east corner of the intersectin of the Wakehurst Parkway and Kirkwood Street, Seaforth, is not pristine bush, but it serves the purpose of protecting the integrity of the park. It includes a part of the Wakehurst Golf Course, a section is traversed by the circuit trail for cycling and walking; and the land plays an important function in protecting the Manly Dam Catchment, and is part of a wildlife corridor.
A further two parcels of land on the fringe of the park in King Street Manly Vale and Wandella Road, Allambie, are also to planned to be rezoned to recreational.
The Save Manly Dam Community Group also need to be acknowledged for their tireless work to protect this special park.
It will take years for the Northern Beaches LEP to be completed which is why we need to get on with this rezoning from Residential back to Recreational to protect this very important area from redevelopment.
Old Manly Hospital site has locked in its first project. It’s ‘Big Bear Cottage’, a hospice and respite care centre for young adults with life-limiting illnesses.
Bear Cottage, located just down the road, can’t take patients over 18 years, meaning these sick young people often end up in geriatric hospital wards. Now, there will be an alternative, with the State Government unveiling a design plan for a young adult hospice last month. It features public areas, bedrooms for about eight patients, sweeping harbour views, and privacy - as a result of its proposed location at the back of the old hospital site.
Images: Hospice design plan, including games room.
Bear Cottage, located just down the road, can’t take patients over 18 years, meaning these sick young people often end up in geriatric hospital wards. Now, there will be an alternative, with the State Government unveiling a design plan for a young adult hospice last month. It features public areas, bedrooms for about eight patients, sweeping harbour views, and privacy - as a result of its proposed location at the back of the old hospital site.
Images: Hospice design plan, including games room.
The government is gifting the land for the hospice, and has committed to providing $2M in running costs every year, but most of the funding to actually build the facility has come from donations. An extraordinary $25M has already been raised, guaranteeing the project will go ahead.
The hospice, which will be the first of its kind in the state, will not only provide a much-needed service, but will help establish the hospital site as a community health precinct.
Manly Hospital closed on October 30, with medical services transferring to the new Northern Beaches Hospital at Frenchs Forest. its magnificent hill top site, which is owned by the State Government, is valued at around $500 M. The current Liberal government has promised the entire site to the community, either as bush land or as a community health precinct (see image below). Which facilities end up on the site are yet to be determined, with community members actively involved in the decision-making process. The government has promised the site will not be sold for residential development.
Image: Provisional old hospital site map: yellow area marked AYAH - the hospice; green areas - return to bush land; blue areas - future community health facilities.
The hospice, which will be the first of its kind in the state, will not only provide a much-needed service, but will help establish the hospital site as a community health precinct.
Manly Hospital closed on October 30, with medical services transferring to the new Northern Beaches Hospital at Frenchs Forest. its magnificent hill top site, which is owned by the State Government, is valued at around $500 M. The current Liberal government has promised the entire site to the community, either as bush land or as a community health precinct (see image below). Which facilities end up on the site are yet to be determined, with community members actively involved in the decision-making process. The government has promised the site will not be sold for residential development.
Image: Provisional old hospital site map: yellow area marked AYAH - the hospice; green areas - return to bush land; blue areas - future community health facilities.
Manly is set to get the surf club we deserve, after the Northern Beaches Council approved a plan to knock down and rebuild the existing Manly Surf Pavilion building.
Northern Beaches Councillor and Good For Manly President Candy Bingham, who has been campaigning for the project, said she was delighted that the work would go ahead.
"When the existing club building was built in 1981 there were only 15 female patrolling members," Cr Bingham said. "There are now 760."
"It is the largest club on the northern beaches, and it's not only used by club members, but by the Bold & Beautiful swimmers and other community groups."
"Storage facilities are completely inadequate and the public toilets under the building are a disgrace. The toilets are over 40 years old, but they're used by more than 2 million beach goers every summer. Every day I get complaints about the state they're in.
"The great thing about this project is that the whole community will benefit. We'll get the new toilets and we'll also get community facilities in the new building," Cr Bingham said.
Manly SLSC itself is 115 years old, and has occupied various buildings before the existing one. In 1981 the clubhouse was actually on the beach and could be accessed directly from the sand.
The club also has a huge collection of historic surfing artefacts and memorabilia. It's now in storage as there's no room to put it on display. The images below show: Frank Hurley's iconic image of the club and shark tower in the 1950s; Manly surf reel and long boards; surf life saving demonstration c1910.
"When the existing club building was built in 1981 there were only 15 female patrolling members," Cr Bingham said. "There are now 760."
"It is the largest club on the northern beaches, and it's not only used by club members, but by the Bold & Beautiful swimmers and other community groups."
"Storage facilities are completely inadequate and the public toilets under the building are a disgrace. The toilets are over 40 years old, but they're used by more than 2 million beach goers every summer. Every day I get complaints about the state they're in.
"The great thing about this project is that the whole community will benefit. We'll get the new toilets and we'll also get community facilities in the new building," Cr Bingham said.
Manly SLSC itself is 115 years old, and has occupied various buildings before the existing one. In 1981 the clubhouse was actually on the beach and could be accessed directly from the sand.
The club also has a huge collection of historic surfing artefacts and memorabilia. It's now in storage as there's no room to put it on display. The images below show: Frank Hurley's iconic image of the club and shark tower in the 1950s; Manly surf reel and long boards; surf life saving demonstration c1910.
The Council will carry out community consultation before a design is selected, and will soon invite expressions of interest from architects.
Cr Bingham said she would like to thank Manly SLSC members and Council staff for their work so far, and Manly State MP James Griffin, who is sourcing State Government funds for the project.
Cr Bingham said she would like to thank Manly SLSC members and Council staff for their work so far, and Manly State MP James Griffin, who is sourcing State Government funds for the project.
Work has started on the $12 million revamp of the St Matthews end of The Corso. The Anglican Church, which owns the seven shops adjacent to St Matthews, has commenced a major rebuild of the properties.
 |  |
Work commences Corso Shops Artist's Impression of New Works
The historic facade on the first floor will be kept, but behind that will be new kitchen facilities, a row of flexible meeting rooms and offices. The set-back second floor, not visible from The Corso, will contain a 180-seat auditorium with a kitchen and cafe. There will be a large new basement for storage space.
At ground level, the row of shops will have ‘consistent’ frontages and signage, with the church looking for up-market tenants, including ‘iconic’ clothing brands, and a high-end coffee shop. Manly’s much-loved chemist Malouf’s Pharmacy, which was in that row of shops and was forced to relocate, will be offered a spot.
The work will take up to a year to complete, but the experience will be softened with a mural coming to replace the existing ugly hoardings.
At ground level, the row of shops will have ‘consistent’ frontages and signage, with the church looking for up-market tenants, including ‘iconic’ clothing brands, and a high-end coffee shop. Manly’s much-loved chemist Malouf’s Pharmacy, which was in that row of shops and was forced to relocate, will be offered a spot.
The work will take up to a year to complete, but the experience will be softened with a mural coming to replace the existing ugly hoardings.
It’s official - our beaches are very good.
The latest State of the Beaches report rated all 32 Northern Beaches as either ‘good’ or ‘very good’ in terms of water quality and swimability.
The latest State of the Beaches report rated all 32 Northern Beaches as either ‘good’ or ‘very good’ in terms of water quality and swimability.
The State Government’s annual report showed that northern peninsula beaches did particularly well, with Palm Beach, Whale Beach, Avalon, Bilgola, Newport, Bungan and Mona Vale beaches all scoring ‘very good’ - the top mark.
South Curl Curl was also rated ‘very good’, while all the rest of our ocean beaches, including Freshwater, Manly and Shelly beach, were rated ‘good’.
Our harbour beaches did well too - with Clontarf and Forty Baskets pools, Fairlight Beach, Manly Cove and Little Manly Cove all rated ‘good’. All of these were the same as the previous year, except Clontarf, which improved.
Good For Manly President and Northern Beaches Councillor Candy Bingham welcomed the result.
“The water is such a big part of our life here on the Northern Beaches, so beach and water cleanliness is incredibly important to us,” she said.
“This is a good result, and the council will keep working to improve the stormwater network and continue with bush and creek regeneration so our beaches stay clean."
South Curl Curl was also rated ‘very good’, while all the rest of our ocean beaches, including Freshwater, Manly and Shelly beach, were rated ‘good’.
Our harbour beaches did well too - with Clontarf and Forty Baskets pools, Fairlight Beach, Manly Cove and Little Manly Cove all rated ‘good’. All of these were the same as the previous year, except Clontarf, which improved.
Good For Manly President and Northern Beaches Councillor Candy Bingham welcomed the result.
“The water is such a big part of our life here on the Northern Beaches, so beach and water cleanliness is incredibly important to us,” she said.
“This is a good result, and the council will keep working to improve the stormwater network and continue with bush and creek regeneration so our beaches stay clean."
Our garbage collection is getting greener - with food waste set to be turned into compost under a new council waste management plan. And in a double win, the new system will cost ratepayers less.
Less garbage will be sent to landfill Northern Beaches Council has signed a contract with waste management company SUEZ to process the entire contents of residents’ rubbish (red lid) bins. The process, which will be carried out at SUEZ’s Eastern Creek facility, will first remove any recyclable plastics or paper products. Organic matter will then be separated out and turned into compost material for use in agriculture and mine site revegetation.
The council originally envisaged residents sorting their own food waste and disposing of it in the green lid garden vegetation bin along with plant and lawn cuttings. However the new strategy means all food waste will be recovered, with no need to rely on residents doing the right thing.
The council selected SUEZ in August last year as a result of a tender process, with the new service to start in July 2019.
Council Deputy Mayor and President of Good For Manly Candy Bingham welcomed the extra recycling step.
“The new process will recycle 70% of what gets thrown into the garbage - whether it’s food waste, or paper and plastics that are in the wrong bin,” Cr Bingham said. “That’s a huge amount of material diverted from landfill and retuned to the economy.
“This is a major step by the council to recycle as much as we can, but there’s still a big role for individuals to play, in not throwing away so much in the first place. ”
The Council will also get a new fleet of garbage trucks after a 10-year contract was signed with United Resources Management (URM) earlier this month. The new vehicles will have up-to-date safety features, emission-controlled engines and fully enclosed covers for the loading ‘hopper’.
As well the Council will introduce a separate metal collection; and will work with local community groups to separate out and retrieve valuable items, such as furniture and white goods, from kerbside collections.
“Everyone I talk to has been inspired by the ABC’s War on Waste,” Cr Bingham said. “I have no doubt the community will work together with the council to recycle, reuse or repair - rather than tossing things that just go straight into landfill.”
The council originally envisaged residents sorting their own food waste and disposing of it in the green lid garden vegetation bin along with plant and lawn cuttings. However the new strategy means all food waste will be recovered, with no need to rely on residents doing the right thing.
The council selected SUEZ in August last year as a result of a tender process, with the new service to start in July 2019.
Council Deputy Mayor and President of Good For Manly Candy Bingham welcomed the extra recycling step.
“The new process will recycle 70% of what gets thrown into the garbage - whether it’s food waste, or paper and plastics that are in the wrong bin,” Cr Bingham said. “That’s a huge amount of material diverted from landfill and retuned to the economy.
“This is a major step by the council to recycle as much as we can, but there’s still a big role for individuals to play, in not throwing away so much in the first place. ”
The Council will also get a new fleet of garbage trucks after a 10-year contract was signed with United Resources Management (URM) earlier this month. The new vehicles will have up-to-date safety features, emission-controlled engines and fully enclosed covers for the loading ‘hopper’.
As well the Council will introduce a separate metal collection; and will work with local community groups to separate out and retrieve valuable items, such as furniture and white goods, from kerbside collections.
“Everyone I talk to has been inspired by the ABC’s War on Waste,” Cr Bingham said. “I have no doubt the community will work together with the council to recycle, reuse or repair - rather than tossing things that just go straight into landfill.”
UPDATE: 17/9/18
The plan to increase no-take ‘sanctuary’ zones has been ditched, after lobbying by fishing groups. Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair has announced that “fishing lock outs (are) off the table”. The public consultation process, which still has almost two weeks to run, has been marred by confusion and unfounded concerns that fishers would be 'locked out' of all their favourite spots. In fact, only 2.5% of the coastline would have had fishing completely banned, and many popular fishing spots were specifically excluded from proposed sanctuary zones. Marine activists and environmentalists have criticised the back-down and vowed to continue the fight for a Sydney Marine Park.
The plan to increase no-take ‘sanctuary’ zones has been ditched, after lobbying by fishing groups. Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair has announced that “fishing lock outs (are) off the table”. The public consultation process, which still has almost two weeks to run, has been marred by confusion and unfounded concerns that fishers would be 'locked out' of all their favourite spots. In fact, only 2.5% of the coastline would have had fishing completely banned, and many popular fishing spots were specifically excluded from proposed sanctuary zones. Marine activists and environmentalists have criticised the back-down and vowed to continue the fight for a Sydney Marine Park.
7/9/18 The state government plans to increase marine parks in Sydney Harbour and up and down the coast. In Manly, both Cabbage Tree Bay and North Sydney Aquatic Reserve would increase significantly in size.
Weedy sea dragons. Renata Bruynzeel While many people are delighted, fishermen are worried that some fishing spots will become off limits.
Under the proposal Cabbage Tree Bay would increase in size from 18 to 52 hectares. The protected area would be extended around North Head almost as far as Blue Fish Point, and go further out to sea. Blue Fish Point itself would be designated a 7ha Special Purpose Zone, where recreational fishing, and some activities would be allowed. And in a big win for environmentalists, boats would be banned from anchoring in seagrass regions in Cabbage Tree Bay, with courtesy moorings or a designated anchoring area to be considered instead.
The images below show existing reserve on the left; new enlarged reserve on the right. Pink is a Sanctuary no-take zone, blue is Special Purpose - some fishing allowed.
Under the proposal Cabbage Tree Bay would increase in size from 18 to 52 hectares. The protected area would be extended around North Head almost as far as Blue Fish Point, and go further out to sea. Blue Fish Point itself would be designated a 7ha Special Purpose Zone, where recreational fishing, and some activities would be allowed. And in a big win for environmentalists, boats would be banned from anchoring in seagrass regions in Cabbage Tree Bay, with courtesy moorings or a designated anchoring area to be considered instead.
The images below show existing reserve on the left; new enlarged reserve on the right. Pink is a Sanctuary no-take zone, blue is Special Purpose - some fishing allowed.
Our other marine park is North Harbour Aquatic Reserve - a section of Sydney Harbour between Dobroyd Head and North Head from Quarantine Beach to Collins Beach. The new proposal would increase this area northwards all the way to the coastline, meaning Manly Cove, Spring Cove, Fairlight and all of North Harbour will be completely included. See images. As well, the new area will have two new sanctuary (no take) zones; one at Fairlight beach and the other in Spring Cove. However, recreational fishing will still be allowed in a small area around Little Manly Point.
The images below show existing reserve on the left; new enlarged reserve on the right. Pink is a Sanctuary no-take zone, blue is Special Purpose - some fishing allowed, yellow is little penguin habitat.
The images below show existing reserve on the left; new enlarged reserve on the right. Pink is a Sanctuary no-take zone, blue is Special Purpose - some fishing allowed, yellow is little penguin habitat.
Many people in the Manly community have worked hard for this for years, including Sharnie Connell from the Marine Conservation Society, the Surfrider Foundation, and Manly Environment Centre. Our local MP James Griffin has also pledged his support.
All up the proposed new park would deliver 25 new marine sites in the Hawksbury Shelf Bioregion between Newcastle to Wollongong, including sites at Dee Why headland, Long Reef, Narrabeen Head, Mona Vale, Bungan and Barrenjoey headlands and Lion Island, as well as Chowder Bay, Camp Cove and Nielsen Park. Despite this, 95% of the region remains available for fishing.
More details here for Cabbage Tree Bay and North Harbour Reserve.
The government is conducting a public consultation process, before making its final decision. Have your say by Thursday Sept 27 at https://www.marine.nsw.gov.au/key-initiatives/hawkesbury-shelf-marine-assessment
All up the proposed new park would deliver 25 new marine sites in the Hawksbury Shelf Bioregion between Newcastle to Wollongong, including sites at Dee Why headland, Long Reef, Narrabeen Head, Mona Vale, Bungan and Barrenjoey headlands and Lion Island, as well as Chowder Bay, Camp Cove and Nielsen Park. Despite this, 95% of the region remains available for fishing.
More details here for Cabbage Tree Bay and North Harbour Reserve.
The government is conducting a public consultation process, before making its final decision. Have your say by Thursday Sept 27 at https://www.marine.nsw.gov.au/key-initiatives/hawkesbury-shelf-marine-assessment
New ‘Airbnb’ legislation is on its way through State Parliament. It’s an attempt to deal with problems with short-term lets in apartment blocks, and balance the needs of short-stay hosts and their guests, with the rights of other residents in the block.
Owners corporations (body corporates) can now pass by-laws banning short stay letting in investment units, although a 75% vote is required. But it’s a different story for unit owners who rent out their own home - their principal place of residence.
Owners corporations have no power to ban short-stay rentals of a unit owner's own home. There's no restrictions at all if the host is still living there and just renting out a few rooms; but new Environmental Planning Laws will limit the time the entire unit - host not there - can be rented out to 180 days a year.
New ’Two strikes and you’re out’ laws are meant to protect other apartment owners from anti-social behaviour by short term renters. These are yet to be tested.
A short-stay rental usually means anything less than 30 days, with Airbnb and Stayz dominating the market.
Owners corporations have no power to ban short-stay rentals of a unit owner's own home. There's no restrictions at all if the host is still living there and just renting out a few rooms; but new Environmental Planning Laws will limit the time the entire unit - host not there - can be rented out to 180 days a year.
New ’Two strikes and you’re out’ laws are meant to protect other apartment owners from anti-social behaviour by short term renters. These are yet to be tested.
A short-stay rental usually means anything less than 30 days, with Airbnb and Stayz dominating the market.
Sydney Morning Herald 15/8/18. 'Developer chases $74 million payout in bungled Manly development'. It says:
"The builder contracted to transform a site in Manly's town centre has accused the former Manly Council of misleading conduct for failing to reveal it bungled the contract when the company signed up to the doomed project.
But the new Northern Beaches Council has levelled the blame at the previous council's general manager, Henry Wong, who it claims in court documents was not authorised to enter into the agreement....". More here
"The builder contracted to transform a site in Manly's town centre has accused the former Manly Council of misleading conduct for failing to reveal it bungled the contract when the company signed up to the doomed project.
But the new Northern Beaches Council has levelled the blame at the previous council's general manager, Henry Wong, who it claims in court documents was not authorised to enter into the agreement....". More here
Northern Beaches Council's decision to abandon Built Development's plan for a new Manly library triggered a multimillion-dollar lawsuit. Photo: Manly Council
The reinstatement of the famous harbour pool and boardwalk came closer this month with a $100,000 NSW Government grant received by the Council to undertake a Masterplan for the area. For years Good For Manly has been advocating for the pool to be reinstated, with plans drawn up by eco architect Maurice Patten. Now, thanks to the support of Local Member James Griffin, this community-lead project is back on the agenda.
The Masterplan will include extensive community consultation and consideration of this environmentally sensitive area. First, here's a reminder of how things used to be.
SEVEN MILES FROM SYDNEY - AND A THOUSAND MILES FROM CARE ...
Picture the excitement as families rushed off the Manly ferry, hurried over the boardwalk and jumped into Sydney’s biggest harbour pool.
Crowds of happy people would be eating ice-cream on the walkway, diving from the pontoons and high boards and spilling off the slippery dips and treadmills; shrieking and splashing.
The Masterplan will include extensive community consultation and consideration of this environmentally sensitive area. First, here's a reminder of how things used to be.
SEVEN MILES FROM SYDNEY - AND A THOUSAND MILES FROM CARE ...
Picture the excitement as families rushed off the Manly ferry, hurried over the boardwalk and jumped into Sydney’s biggest harbour pool.
Crowds of happy people would be eating ice-cream on the walkway, diving from the pontoons and high boards and spilling off the slippery dips and treadmills; shrieking and splashing.
From the early 1930’s locals and tourists alike flocked to the free public pool, dubbed the ‘best swimming pool in Australia’. Thrill-seekers sought out the high dive platforms and 15m waterslide and a generation of Sydneysiders swam and played in the protected waters behind the shark nets.
There were spacious changerooms and plenty of tearooms for afterwards. At night, from 1932, floodlights above and below the water lit the promenade and turned the water green.
At its peak, over 250,000 visitors came to the baths every year, boosting local businesses which offered fun rides and speed-boat trips, as well as food and drink.
The pool justified Manly’s famous slogan: ‘Seven miles from Sydney and a thousand miles from care’, and the village revelled in its prime holiday destination status.
Originally constructed in 1931 by the Port Jackson Steamship Company, the boardwalk survived the wartime years but, by the mid ‘60s, maintenance needs were rising and there was talk of demolishing the structure.
In May 1974 a severe autumn gale pre-empted the decision and destroyed the boardwalk so thoroughly that then owners, Brambles Industries, had no choice but to remove everything.
YOU CAN VIEW A WONDERFUL SHORT DOCUMENTARY ON THE HISTORY OF THE POOL, produced by local Marian Hambly, HERE
And here's our video of ideas for a new green, family friendly harbour pool precinct. More details here.
There were spacious changerooms and plenty of tearooms for afterwards. At night, from 1932, floodlights above and below the water lit the promenade and turned the water green.
At its peak, over 250,000 visitors came to the baths every year, boosting local businesses which offered fun rides and speed-boat trips, as well as food and drink.
The pool justified Manly’s famous slogan: ‘Seven miles from Sydney and a thousand miles from care’, and the village revelled in its prime holiday destination status.
Originally constructed in 1931 by the Port Jackson Steamship Company, the boardwalk survived the wartime years but, by the mid ‘60s, maintenance needs were rising and there was talk of demolishing the structure.
In May 1974 a severe autumn gale pre-empted the decision and destroyed the boardwalk so thoroughly that then owners, Brambles Industries, had no choice but to remove everything.
YOU CAN VIEW A WONDERFUL SHORT DOCUMENTARY ON THE HISTORY OF THE POOL, produced by local Marian Hambly, HERE
And here's our video of ideas for a new green, family friendly harbour pool precinct. More details here.
Manly‘s iconic harbour pool and boardwalk were destroyed more than 40 years ago when Sydney was hit by one of the worst storms in recorded history.
Manly locals have never forgotten the much-loved swim spot. Finally, we're a step closer to getting it back.
Manly locals have never forgotten the much-loved swim spot. Finally, we're a step closer to getting it back.
Dee Why ferry and harbour pool. c1934
The Northern Beaches Deputy Mayor and Good For Manly President Candy Bingham has spent several years developing a masterplan for the entire West Promenade area.
The plan, put together by architect Maurice Patten, includes a boardwalk stretching from Manly Wharf to the former Sea Life Sanctuary; a huge calm-water swimming area with pontoons as well as a lap-swimming section; an environmental sea-grass area and a little penguin protected zone. On land there would be landscaping and a focus on art and culture, anchored by the existing Manly Art Gallery and Museum; as well as a future use for the aquarium site, vacated by the Sea Life Sanctuary earlier this year.
Now the State Government has come to the party with Manly MP James Griffin announcing a $100,000 heritage grant for the council to take the work further. This will include extensive community consultation, an updated plan and costings for the potential project.
“I’m so excited that this is moving forward,” Cr Bingham said. “There was such a gap when the boardwalk was destroyed, and it’s never really been filled.”
“Manly has always been famous for its ocean beaches, but a lot of people prefer to swim where it’s a bit more sheltered, and they know they are safe from sharks.
“As well the boardwalk would connect up the Federation Point area - where Sea Life Sanctuary was - which gets overlooked. We have the art gallery and cafes and restaurants in a wonderful location there. A boardwalk would make it easy for tourists, and locals, to spread out more and enjoy that part of Manly as well.“
Check out our photo gallery and history article here.
The plan, put together by architect Maurice Patten, includes a boardwalk stretching from Manly Wharf to the former Sea Life Sanctuary; a huge calm-water swimming area with pontoons as well as a lap-swimming section; an environmental sea-grass area and a little penguin protected zone. On land there would be landscaping and a focus on art and culture, anchored by the existing Manly Art Gallery and Museum; as well as a future use for the aquarium site, vacated by the Sea Life Sanctuary earlier this year.
Now the State Government has come to the party with Manly MP James Griffin announcing a $100,000 heritage grant for the council to take the work further. This will include extensive community consultation, an updated plan and costings for the potential project.
“I’m so excited that this is moving forward,” Cr Bingham said. “There was such a gap when the boardwalk was destroyed, and it’s never really been filled.”
“Manly has always been famous for its ocean beaches, but a lot of people prefer to swim where it’s a bit more sheltered, and they know they are safe from sharks.
“As well the boardwalk would connect up the Federation Point area - where Sea Life Sanctuary was - which gets overlooked. We have the art gallery and cafes and restaurants in a wonderful location there. A boardwalk would make it easy for tourists, and locals, to spread out more and enjoy that part of Manly as well.“
Check out our photo gallery and history article here.
Maurice Patten's plan for new pool, boardwalk, landscaping and public art developed for Good For Manly.
Balgowlah Golf Course will go but homes and bushland will be saved as plans for the Beaches Link Tunnel move forward.
The new focus on the golf course was revealed in State Government design plans for the $8 billion tunnel released last month. It is one of several changes adopted by the government as a result of community concerns.
The new focus on the golf course was revealed in State Government design plans for the $8 billion tunnel released last month. It is one of several changes adopted by the government as a result of community concerns.
A change to the alignment of the tunnel means the Balgowlah course can now be used for major construction work and later, as the site of one of the two tunnel ventilation stacks. This move not only saves homes and bushland west of Burnt Bridge Deviation but also moves the stack further away from Seaforth Public School. Permanent infrastructure, including the exhaust stack and a tunnel link road, mean that the site will no longer be viable as a golf course. Instead the government has promised that once the tunnel work is done, it will be reconfigured into playing fields or open space.
Changes have been made at Seaforth as well. The second tunnel access point and exhaust stack has been moved 500m further north along Wakehurst Parkway, as a result of concerns that the infrastructure would be too close to houses and Seaforth oval. The government has promised that Seaforth oval sports fields will not be affected by construction work, and that work trucks will be kept off local roads. As well, Wakehurst Parkway will get wildlife crossing sites, and a new cycle/pedestrian path, complete with an underpass.
Northern Beaches Councillor Sarah Grattan, who has been working closely with community advocacy groups, said while the changes were welcome, more needed to be done.
“(The design) is not perfect by any stretch - but thanks to constructive community advocacy we have a much better proposal to work with,” Cr Grattan said.
She said unresolved issues include the tunnel access site on Wakehurst Parkway, which has not been moved far enough north, and remains too close to homes on Kirkwood St. And the Balgowlah emission stack remains a concern as fumes may be trapped in the ‘Balgowlah basin’. Cr Grattan suggests that airflow should be redirected in the tunnel to push the majority of emissions to the Wakehurst Parkway stack, which is on a ridge, and therefore better positioned for dispersal of fumes. Filtering the Balgowlah stack is another suggestion.
Other concerns include construction traffic and road safety around Balgowlah Boys High School; compensation and transfer options for Balgowlah Golf Club members and the effect of a major construction site in Seaforth.
Changes have been made at Seaforth as well. The second tunnel access point and exhaust stack has been moved 500m further north along Wakehurst Parkway, as a result of concerns that the infrastructure would be too close to houses and Seaforth oval. The government has promised that Seaforth oval sports fields will not be affected by construction work, and that work trucks will be kept off local roads. As well, Wakehurst Parkway will get wildlife crossing sites, and a new cycle/pedestrian path, complete with an underpass.
Northern Beaches Councillor Sarah Grattan, who has been working closely with community advocacy groups, said while the changes were welcome, more needed to be done.
“(The design) is not perfect by any stretch - but thanks to constructive community advocacy we have a much better proposal to work with,” Cr Grattan said.
She said unresolved issues include the tunnel access site on Wakehurst Parkway, which has not been moved far enough north, and remains too close to homes on Kirkwood St. And the Balgowlah emission stack remains a concern as fumes may be trapped in the ‘Balgowlah basin’. Cr Grattan suggests that airflow should be redirected in the tunnel to push the majority of emissions to the Wakehurst Parkway stack, which is on a ridge, and therefore better positioned for dispersal of fumes. Filtering the Balgowlah stack is another suggestion.
Other concerns include construction traffic and road safety around Balgowlah Boys High School; compensation and transfer options for Balgowlah Golf Club members and the effect of a major construction site in Seaforth.
“The community groups and my colleague Sarah have done an amazing job negotiating with the government so far,” Northern Beaches Deputy Mayor and Good For Manly President Candy Bingham said. “They’ve actually persuaded the government to move the tunnel and save peoples’ homes in Burnt St Seaforth and Serpentine Cres North Balgowlah. And don’t forget the tunnel has been classified as a State Significant Project, which means the government basically has the power to do whatever it likes.”
“Of course some issues remain, but I’m excited that something’s finally being done to help fix our traffic.”
The government has allocated almost $560 million on early work so far, with major construction set to start in 2020 and the tunnel to open in 2026. Promised travel times include 14 minutes between Balgowlah and North Sydney; and 53 minutes from Manly to Parramatta.
“Of course some issues remain, but I’m excited that something’s finally being done to help fix our traffic.”
The government has allocated almost $560 million on early work so far, with major construction set to start in 2020 and the tunnel to open in 2026. Promised travel times include 14 minutes between Balgowlah and North Sydney; and 53 minutes from Manly to Parramatta.
The design plan is open for community input until November at www.rms.nsw.gov.au/projects/sydney-north/western-harbour-tunnel-beaches-link
Author
Candy Bingham, Manly Ward Councillor on Northern Beaches Council. Background in marketing, public relations and community engagement. Author of five business books. Former Lady Mayoress of Sydney. Aka Candy Tymson.
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