A plan to add nine berths and a public kiosk to the North Harbour Marina in Balgowlah has been recommended for approval, escalating a dispute with hundreds of residents who formally opposed the project.
A Divisive Plan for the Harbour
The proposal, put forward by property developer Addenbrooke for the North Harbour Marina, involves a significant refurbishment of the site historically known as Davis Marina. The plans include adding nine new berths to reach a total of 44 and removing ten swing moorings to widen a channel in the adjacent Jillings Cove.
The redevelopment would also introduce a waterside kiosk open to the general public and provide new storage racks for 72 dinghies, many of which are currently left along the foreshore. While the marina’s overall footprint would not increase, the scale of the proposed changes has become a point of friction within the community.
Tidal Wave of Community Concern
When the development application was opened for public comment, it drew a tidal wave of opposition, with more than 250 submissions lodged against the plan, compared to just 17 in support. Residents and local boaties expressed fears that North Harbour would become clogged with larger vessels, creating environmental damage and safety issues.
The North Harbour Community Group voiced concerns about a loss of amenity for locals. The group’s secretary, Terry Le Roux, stated that the waterway is primarily used for recreation by residents in kayaks, on paddle boards, and in small sailboats, while the larger boats seeking berths would likely belong to non-residents.
Others worried about increased noise from the kiosk, which was slated to begin service at 6 a.m. with outdoor seating. On land, local Kerry Smallman submitted that the kiosk would intensify traffic and strain the already inadequate parking situation on Gourlay Avenue.
Due to the significant public response, the application was referred to the independent Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel for a final decision on July 16. In its assessment report for the panel, the council recommended that the development be approved. Council staff advised the panel that the proposal had been amended during the assessment to lessen its impact.
The changes included reducing the overall scale of the development, capping the maximum length of boats at the new berths to 15 metres, and scaling back the kiosk, which will not be permitted to sell alcohol. According to the council’s report, the amended works are now considered compatible with the area and the desired future character of the harbour. The owners of the marina have been contacted for their comment on the matter.
Published Date 24-July-2025
