Pedestrians are now being redirected onto the new boardwalk, which will have temporary handrails in place while works continue throughout December to remove the temporary path and complete landscaping, with final completion expected in early 2026.
We exhibited the concept plans in April and May 2024 and heard from 162 people, with strong support. Many considered the proposal sensible and proactive.
Construction began in August 2025 and remains on track for completion in early 2026, weather permitting. The boardwalk is now open, featuring temporary handrails while landscaping works continue.
The full coastal walk loop will stay open during the boardwalk and bridge upgrades.
A 2-metre-wide temporary path will run beside the works, fenced on both sides for safety – please stay on the designated path. Contractors will manage any occasional truck movements across the path.
The path can be accessed with a pram; however, it is not fully DDA-compliant due to the natural terrain. Please take extra care when using it during the works.
The Griffith Park Dog Off-leash Area will remain unaffected.
We’re working closely with Long Reef Golf Club to keep impacts to its members and guests to a minimum.
Two tees and the footpath next to the boardwalk will be shifted about 2 metres north-west to make room for the new boardwalk and a dune that will separate walkers from golfers. You may notice occasional vehicle movements or material deliveries during construction, but these are expected to cause only minor disruptions.
Construction access will be from the eastern side of Griffith Park, away from the marked playing field. You might see some vehicle movements or material deliveries from time to time, but we expect any disruption to be minimal.
During the works, a temporary site compound in the Upper Griffith carpark will take up 3 parking spaces. Thank you for your understanding.
Construction commenced in late August and expected to finish early 2026, weather permitting.
Works will typically take place Monday to Friday, between 7am and 5pm.
When night works are needed, nearby residents will be notified in advance by the contractor. We’ll be working closely with them to help minimise impacts on the community.
You may experience some construction noise from the demolition and construction of the new boardwalk and bridge. We will work to minimise disruption where possible and appreciate your patience as we deliver this important community upgrade.
We are planning to replace the boardwalk and bridge, relocating it slightly further away from the coast to minimise the impacts of storm surges on this highly valued section of the coastal walk.
An Options Report was prepared with the preferred option (Option 2) being selected. A Review of Environmental Factors was also prepared based on Option 2. If we don't proceed with this project, we will have to permanently close off this section of the Long Reef Headland walk.
Relocation of the boardwalk results in minor changes to two tees and a pathway on Long Reef Golf Course. We have engaged with the Golf Club and they are supportive of the current option.
An Aboriginal Site had previously been recorded in the direct location of the proposed works. An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment and archaeological assessment of the site has been undertaken and it has been determined that the Aboriginal Site has been destroyed by natural occurrences (storm surges).
Community and stakeholder engagement for the Long Reef boardwalk and bridge
replacement project was conducted between 5 April and 12 May 2024 and we heard from over 150 people.
There was strong support for the concept plans to replace and slightly relocate the boardwalk and bridge to reduce storm surge impacts. Many considered the proposal sensible and proactive.
While the upgrade was welcomed, respondents stressed the importance of walker safety, reducing the risk of golf ball strikes, and using materials that blend with the natural environment.
| Name | Park Assets – Planning, Design & Delivery Team |
|---|---|
| Phone | 1300 434 434 (during business hours) |
| council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au | |
| In writing | marked 'Long Reef boardwalk & bridge replacement', Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82, Manly NSW 1655 |
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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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