It was only last week that we reported North Harbour residents were very unhappy over the redevelopment of the former Davis Marina in Balgowlah. You can read more about it here.
While residents told Manly Observer they were happy for North Harbour Marina to get a makeover, they were against the option to accommodate superyachts, have a sit-in café open from 6am to 9pm (or sunset, whichever came first on the day), and for the sale of alcohol to be permitted.
Well, it seems the new owner of the Marina, Ned O’Neil, is listening.
Member for Manly, James Griffin, notified us that following concerns raised by residents, he spoke to both Council and O’Neil and an agreement has been reached.
“They agreed to limit the berth size to a 15m maximum berth, reduce kiosk operating hours to between 7am and 4pm and not serve alcohol at the kiosk,” Mr Griffin said.
“Obviously, everyone wants to strike a balance of providing a good marina service that will be an asset for locals and visitors as well as protect local amenity. I think the proponents also understand that and are making changes to ensure that is the case. I want to thank the Marina owners for being so responsive.”
O’Neil, Managing Director of Addenbrooke, confirmed to Manly Observer that after consulting with residents, community groups and Mr Griffin, he has offered to restrict the maximum berth length to 15m and restrict the kiosk operation.
“Yesterday, I delivered 115 letters detailing these changes into mailboxes of residents around the bay and had the opportunity to speak with many residents and business owners about the plans,” he explained.
The letter outlines the DA and notes the proposed conditions:
“After further consultation about the proposed DA we have agreed to accept the following conditions if imposed by council:
15m maximum berth length: this would mean each T-Head would have two berths and a maximum size of 15m (50ft) and no single larger berths will be permitted.
Kiosk operating hours and no alcohol: The Kiosk operating restricted to 7am until 4pm and no alcohol served.”
O’Neil added he was willing to continue to work with the community to further refine the proposal if required.
“The reaction by the community to the proposed conditions was overwhelming positive, but some said they would miss the opportunity to have something to eat and a glass of wine on the waterfront,” he added.
O’Neil will be forwarding the letter to Council to ensure they’re aware of the proposed conditions he is willing to accept.
When we reached out to Council, they said as the discussion with the applicant is ongoing; they are unable to comment on the matter at this stage.
Initially, only four residents were formally notified by Council of the Development Application (DA2024/1216). It was only after enquiries from our team, and concern expressed by Mr Griffin, Council reassessed its approach and extended notification to all foreshore residents, and lengthened the closing date for submission to 19 November.
“No one doubts that the notification process could’ve been done better and that’s something I have asked Council to look into,” Mr Griffin said.
“This should be a project that people are excited about, and I think with the correct measures in place, it will be a good outcome for all involved.”
