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Freshwater Beach Masterplan Staged Implementation

Improving accessibility, inclusion and experience

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Discover what's new

What's happening?

Freshwater Beach is more than just sand and surf - it's where our community comes together. We're working to enhance this special place, and your input has been invaluable every step of the way!

Together, we created the Freshwater Coastal Open Space Masterplan in 2017/18. We shared the detailed designs in 2022, and asked for your thoughts before we began works in 2023 to bring our shared vision to life.

This is the first major renewal since the 1980s, and we're addressing general amenity, accessibility, play areas and maintenance needs.

Completed stages

Click on the coloured icons to learn about each item

New playground coming soon - southern end

We are renewing the playground at the southern end (Moore Road) with new equipment and surfacing, including:

  • new play structure for toddlers
  • new swing set with standard, toddler & basket seats
  • dune buggy spring rocker
  • new synthetic grass safety surfacing
  • slight repositioning of playground and path as outlined in the masterplan.

The playground will be of a similar size to the existing, and will meet current Australian Standards.


Updated timeline

Works have commenced with the removal of the old playground and construction of the new connect path. Due to a delay in shipment of playground equipment, we've had to adjust construction schedules. We anticipate the renewal works will commence 12 January 2026 (subject to weather and contractor availability).
playground equipment with yellow slide
concept plan with example equipment pieces
Download the concept plan open in new window

Timeline

  • Timeline item 1 - active

    Dec 2025 - Jan 2026: Smaller playground under construction

  • Timeline item 2 - complete

    Dec 2025: Accessible playground - Final pieces installed

  • Timeline item 3 - complete

    Nov 2024: Accessible playground opens

  • Timeline item 4 - complete

    Sep 2024: Carpark linemarking refreshed

  • Timeline item 5 - complete

    Jul 2024: Bbqs and viewing platform installed

  • Timeline item 6 - complete

    Jun 2024: Picnic shelters installed

  • Timeline item 7 - complete

    Apr 2024: Accessible ramp, stairs, handrails and landscaping installed

  • Timeline item 8 - complete

    Mar 2024: Temporary detours in place

  • Timeline item 9 - complete

    Dec 2023: Works commence

  • Timeline item 10 - complete

    Jul - Aug 2022: Consultation on detailed designs

  • Timeline item 11 - complete

    May 2018: Masterplan adopted by Council

  • Timeline item 12 - complete

    Feb 2018: Consultation on draft Masterplan

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Why is the focus on these park improvements?
Why is the playground back in the original location?
What is different and new about the playground?
What is the reason for all the path connections?

Frequently asked questions

Why is the focus on these park improvements?

We are focusing on key elements in the park being upgraded to improve and enhance the community experience of these areas.

Our focus is on accessibility and inclusion, and renewal of park assets. Some park assets are overdue for renewal and others will assist with ongoing maintenance.

Why is the playground back in the original location?

We have been working with Freshwater Surf Life Saving Club on the public amenities and playground location since the adoption of the Freshwater Coastal Open Space Masterplan (FCOSM).

After internal and stakeholder review the desire to relocate public amenity out of the surf club has required us to review the space again.

We are proposing to provide a separate fit for purpose amenities block external to the surf club. This means we are also proposing to leave the playground where it is.

In response to Friends of Freshwater, we have incorporated landscape planting and features into the design of the new playground to create a physical barrier and deterrent for children.

What is different and new about the playground?

The playground has been designed to provide an inclusive play-space that offers a variety of play experiences.

Take a look at the playground analysis. The analysis helped inform which play experiences should be included in the design. We compared the experiences available at other parks in the surrounding area.

Take a look at the underwater theme. When you look at the playground design you will see how we've incorporated this theme into the play elements.

What is the reason for all the path connections?

In response to community consultation we have reduced one of the larger path connections.

When we have the opportunity to make improvements to our open spaces we want to make sure parks and public places are easy to get to and move around.

Improving accessibility is one of the critical actions from our Disability and Inclusion Action Plan or DIAP.

Council has a number of adopted strategic plans that guide our priorities and our vision for the Northern Beaches. The plans you see on this page have been developed based on community feedback.

Some other strategic plans we refer to include:

  • Northern Beaches Bike Plan - July 2020
  • Northern Beaches Walking Plan - April 2019
Why are the paths the width they are, and positioned where they are?

We strive for best practice when designing open spaces. We follow industry standards where practical and in response to site conditions.

To comply with standards for shared paths, wheelchair accessibility and accessible carpark connections it is necessary to analyse the individual site constraints, gradients, the way the space is used by people, and how well it functions. These assessments inform the placement and width of those proposed path connections.

Why are there no major changes to the carparks being proposed as presented in the overarching masterplan?

For the first stage of implementation we are prioritising accessibility through the reserve and viewing points and upgrading the playground.

Some of the inclusions in the Freshwater Beach Masterplan have been modified based on site understanding and conditions, safety considerations, evolving community needs and budget constraints.

Budget considerations mean we need to carefully consider the cost benefit of some of the deliverables in the overall masterplan.

What lighting is proposed for the park?

Yes. There will be some minor improvements in light quality with the replacement of fixtures to align with Council's Public Space Vision and Design guidelines. Lighting requirements will also be reviewed through a safety audit process when we move to detailed design.

What due diligence has Council done for this site?

We have prepared a Review of Environmental Factors Part 5 (REF) and carried out an Aboriginal Heritage Due Diligence Assessment for the proposed scope of works. The recommendations in the report have been endorsed by the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council (MLALC) in principle.

How has the Freshwater Beach Masterplan changed from the masterplan adopted in 2018?

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been increasing demand on our open spaces. Some of the inclusions in the Freshwater Beach Masterplan have been modified based on site understanding and conditions, safety considerations, evolving community needs and budget constraints.

Budget considerations mean Council needs to carefully consider the cost benefit of some of the deliverables in the overall masterplan. For the first stage of implementation we are prioritising accessibility through the reserve and viewing points and upgrading the playground.

Project updates

Project updates

The final pieces of equipment have been installed at the accessible playground and features facilities the whole family will enjoy, including:

Play in motion:Body strength, coordination, and dexterity:Additional features:
  • A variety of swing options
  • A spinner for multiple users
  • A toddler slide
  • Monkey bars
  • Somersault bars
  • Climbing area
  • Nature trail to promote balancing skills
  • Sensory musical play
  • Sun protection and fully fenced
  • Shelters and seating
  • Picnic area with BBQ and bubbler
  • Nearby toilets




A brand new accessible playground has opened, offering an exciting and inclusive play space for children of all abilities. Designed with a captivating underwater theme that celebrates local marine life, the playground promises adventure and sensory exploration.

Children will be thrilled by the diverse range of play equipment, including:

  • An engaging slide
  • Interactive sensory and musical elements
  • Challenging monkey bars
  • Classic swings
  • An exciting spinner
  • Somersault bars
  • A comprehensive climbing area
  • A charming nature trail

Safety and comfort were paramount in the playground's design. New shade sails provide protection from the sun, while a secure fence ensures children can play freely without wandering near busy roads. The thoughtfully landscaped area features elegant sandstone seating, lush grassed spaces, a soft safety surface, improved pathways, and convenient BBQ facilities.

This playground isn't just a play area—it's a vibrant, welcoming community space that invites children to explore, imagine, and connect with their environment.

The new playground was proudly funded by the NSW Government through the Metropolitan Greenspace Program.

View the plans

Project update: September 2024

We've refreshed the line markings in the Freshwater Beach car park to improve parking accessibility.


Project update: July 2024

Picnic shelters

Two new picnic shelters have been installed near the beach playground.


BBQs

Two new accessible BBQs have been installed and are open for use.


Stairs

All stair/ramp tactiles and stair nosings have been installed.


Lookout deck

The new lookout deck is complete for the community to enjoy, complete with plantings and garden beds.

Village Playground

The playground construction at Freshwater Beach Park will begin on 15 July and is expected to be completed by November 2024. Refer to the map for the affected area.

Project update: June 2024

Picnic Shelters

Two new picnic shelters have been installed at Freshwater Beach along Moore Road (green markers).

Another two shelters have been installed near the beach playground (red markers).

Project update: April 2024

Freshwater Beach Masterplan works continue as we revitalise the precinct for our community to enjoy.

The new accessible ramp, stairs, handrails, and landscaping have now been completed. Temporary fencing will remain in place as we let the new turf areas establish and grow.

The new timber lookout deck and construction of the new playground will begin mid-2024.

We are planning to start shortly on new picnic shelters, seating and bbq's.

We acknowledge that construction can be disruptive, and we thank you for your patience while we complete this important community project.

Refer to the construction staging timelines and staging plan implementation map below for more details on what's to come.






Project update: March 2024

Freshwater Beach Masterplan works are currently underway.

For public safety the staging of the works requires temporary detours for pedestrians.

The temporary pedestrian detour is expected to be in place until the end of March.

The works include the construction of a new accessible ramp, stairs, handrails and landscaping.

We acknowledge that construction can be disruptive, and we thank you for your patience while we complete this important community project.

Refer to the construction staging timelines and staging plan implementation map below for more details on what's to come.

Project update: December 2023

Works on the initial stages of the Freshwater Beach Masterplan implementation are well underway. Construction commenced in September 2023 and will continue into early 2024 (weather permitting).

The works included in this stage are:

  • new wider footpaths
  • accessible paths
  • new timber deck lookout platform - deferred to Winter 2024
  • extra trees and plantings
  • sandstone walls
  • new seating, showers and picnic tables
  • new bbq’s, bike racks and drinking fountains.

Refer to the construction staging timelines and staging plan implementation map below for more details on what's to come.

2022 Engagement outcomes

Freshwater Beach Masterplan: You spoke, we listened!

From 18 July to 14 August 2022, you shared your ideas through:

  • Online comment forms
  • Emails
  • Letters

Thanks to your feedback we've made some exciting changes to our plans.

What's Changed

  • Removed the path from Moore Road to the surf club
  • Simplified the 'Artful Play' area - we'll refresh the existing playground with new landscaping
  • Updated the main playground based on your suggestions:
    • Added monkey bars and slides
    • Included nature play elements
    • Added a perimeter fence for safety

Planning for smooth delivery

We've created a revised staging plan to:

  • Work during off-peak times
  • Minimise disruption to park users.
Read the 2022 Community and Stakeholder Engagement Report open in new window

Document library

Document links

  • Community Engagement Report
  • Freshwater Beach Masterplan Staged Implementation Review of Environmental Factors Part V
  • Freshwater Coastal Open Space Masterplan

Document links

  • Community Engagement Report
  • Freshwater Beach Masterplan Staged Implementation Review of Environmental Factors Part V
  • Freshwater Coastal Open Space Masterplan
  • Open Space and Outdoor Recreation Strategy and Action Plan
  • Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2022-2026
  • Freshwater Beach Village Playground Plans

  • Proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Northern Beaches Council

  • Freshwater Coastal Open Space Masterplan

    Back to main page 

  • Freshwater Beach Amenities Building

    Learn more 

Have an enquiry?

Contact Information
Name Major Infrastructure Projects
Phone 1300 434 434 (during business hours)
Email council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
In writing

'Freshwater Beach Masterplan Implementation' Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82, Manly NSW 1655.



Contact customer service on:

1300 434 434

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and their Country on which we gather today. By these words we show our respect to all Aboriginal people. We acknowledge Elders past, present and emerging and the spirits and ancestors of the Clans that lived in this area.

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