A proposed plan to redevelop a harbourfront site at McMahons Point by replacing a derelict house with public facilities has triggered community opposition.
Background: A Site with Historic Links
The waterfront property is located at 1 Henry Lawson Avenue, McMahons Point, and was compulsorily acquired by the NSW Government in 2021. It was transferred to North Sydney Council in 2022.
The site is known for its historical connection to the 1930s Shark Arm Murder, involving then-owner and boatbuilder Reginald Holmes. In recent decades, the house has deteriorated and remained closed to the public due to safety concerns.
Proposed Works and Cost
North Sydney Council has submitted a development application (DA 410/2024) proposing the demolition of existing structures to construct a coffee kiosk, toilet block, kayak storage area, picnic zone, pedestrian boardwalk, viewing platform, and new footpaths. The total redevelopment is estimated to cost $1.3 million.
According to council documents, the goal is to increase public access to the foreshore, address safety risks from the dilapidated structures, and provide amenities to the community.
Facilities Raise Concerns Over Priorities
Opponents argue that the proposed works interrupt the continuity of Henry Lawson Reserve and depart from the original intent to restore the area as public parkland. Alternative suggestions include soft landscaping and retaining the boat slipway while removing non-essential elements.
Facilities such as toilets, kayak storage, and a coffee cart have been labelled unnecessary, with similar services already existing nearby in Blues Point Reserve, Sawmiller Park, Quibaree Park, and Blues Point Road.
Resident and Precinct Objections
Community opposition has been widespread, with dozens of submissions calling for the removal of commercial and structural elements. The concerns include increased litter, loss of harbour views, insufficient parking, and potential overdevelopment. Residents have cited breaches of World Heritage buffer zone protections due to the site’s location within the visual catchment of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
The Lavender Bay Community Precinct passed a resolution supporting the demolition of the existing structures and restoration of the site to parkland while strongly opposing the inclusion of toilets, a coffee facility, kayak storage, pedestrian boardwalk, picnic area, and new pavements. The Precinct also supported assessment of the proposal by an independent external authority.
Next Steps and Assessment
The DA is currently under review. North Sydney Council has acknowledged the feedback and indicated it will engage with the community regarding the concerns raised. Given the heritage buffer zone, the development will require Ministerial approval. Community members have also called for the DA to be assessed independently to avoid conflicts of interest.
Published 13-Apr-2025