North Sydney Archives - North Sydney Today

North Sydney Olympic Pool Reopening Faces Significant Delays, Pushing Completion into 2026

North Sydney residents hoping for a summer dip will be disappointed as the long-awaited reopening of the Olympic Pool is now predicted to be delayed until early 2026.

The $122 million project, which started in 2021, was expected to finish in May of this year. Still, new reports indicate that the community will have to wait even longer to access the popular swimming spot.

Ongoing Construction Issues

Olympic Pool — *Photo Credit:* *North Sydney*

A report prepared for an upcoming North Sydney Council meeting has revealed that developer Icon’s construction work is progressing more slowly than expected. Currently, the project may not reach practical completion until late November 2025.

This significant delay means that the pool is unlikely to reopen to the public for another six to eight weeks after that, placing the reopening sometime in early 2026. Council documents state that Icon has submitted many applications for extensions of time, totalling 159 since the rebuild commenced. Additionally, there have been a substantial 1,855 requests for information, with 59 still needing to be addressed.

Funding at Risk

The continued delays are also putting a portion of crucial funding at risk. Council has stated that $100,000 in funding provided by the NSW Office of Sport needs to be formally accounted for before 30 June 2025. Discussions are reportedly ongoing between Council staff and the NSW Office of Sport regarding this remaining financial support.

Cost Concerns

While Council maintains that the overall cost of the pool’s completion remains within the initially forecasted $122 million, the number of variation claims submitted by Icon has raised concerns.

To date, Icon has submitted over $140 million in variation claims, including 435 formal submissions and another 111 claims, valued at $4.4 million, that are still under assessment. The report to Council anticipates that these types of claims will continue to be submitted as the project concludes due to ongoing design and contractual matters.

What the New Pool Will Offer

Once the extensive redevelopment is complete, the North Sydney Olympic Pool will offer a range of significantly upgraded facilities for the community. These include a new grandstand with seating for 970 spectators, a 50-metre outdoor pool, a family-friendly leisure pool with water play features, updated change rooms, a gymnasium, a crèche, a 25-metre indoor pool, a warm water pool, spa and sauna facilities, an internal café, a retail shop, and a refurbished ‘Ripples Cafe’.

Published Date 09-May-2025

Japanese Izakaya Opens with Unique Drink System in North Sydney

Photo Credit: Miji Bar Grill/ Instagram

North Sydney now boasts a unique dining experience. Patrons can pour their sake and cocktails from a self-serve bar, bringing a slice of Tokyo’s lively Izakaya culture to the city’s heart.

A Taste of Tokyo in North Sydney

Miji Bar & Grill, a new Japanese Izakaya, has opened its doors, offering a distinctive dining experience. The establishment is the brainchild of Ian Ng, who drew inspiration from a Japanese grocery shop where customers could pour their own sake.

*Photo Credit:* *Miji Bar Grill/ Instagram*

Ng aimed to recreate the casual and vibrant atmosphere of Japanese Izakaya restaurants, which are known for serving good food and drinks late into the night. The bar features neon lights, floor-to-ceiling windows, and Japanese signage, creating an ambience reminiscent of Tokyo’s bustling streets. A replica of the Shinjuku Arch further enhances the authentic Japanese feel.

Culinary Delights and Self-Serve Drinks

The restaurant specialises in grilled seafood and traditional Japanese dishes. Head Chef Jacob Lee, who has experience in Michelin-starred restaurants in New York and South Korea, crafted a menu focusing on high-quality ingredients and creative twists. Signature dishes include Rainbow Trout, Kingfish Crudo, and Kanimiso Okonomi.

A key feature of Miji is its self-serve bar, which offers 24 selections of wines, sakes, and mocktails. Customers use a pre-paid membership card to tap, pay, and pour their drinks, allowing for a casual and flexible dining experience.

This concept aims to replicate the informal atmosphere of Japanese Izakayas, where patrons can enjoy a quick drink and snack without a formal sit-down meal. The owner stated that the purpose of the self-serve system is to allow people to stop by, enjoy a drink, and leave when they are ready.

Community Gathering Place

Miji Bar & Grill aims to be a gathering place for the North Sydney community, catering to office workers, friends, and families. The restaurant hopes to provide an authentic Japanese experience, offering traditional flavours and drinks in a welcoming and lively environment.

The chef mentioned that the restaurant wants people to leave feeling like they have experienced something new and exciting. The restaurant is focused on providing fresh grilled seafood and a selection of beer and sake in a lively atmosphere.

Published Date 20-March-2025

Miller Place: A $40-Million Vision Facing Funding Hurdle in North Sydney

Photo Credit: NSC

A proposed $40-million pedestrian plaza in North Sydney’s CBD, designed to transform Miller Street into a car-free public space, faces uncertainty as funding remains unconfirmed.

Business Sydney and NSC advocate for financial support to proceed with the project. The project aims to complement the newly completed Victoria Cross Metro Station.

Proposed plaza in North Sydney — *Photo Credit: NSC*

Transforming Miller Street into a Pedestrian Plaza

Plans for a $40 million pedestrian plaza, dubbed “Miller Place,” propose closing Miller Street to traffic between the Pacific Highway and Berry Street to create a 7,500-square-metre public space. Inspired by world-class pedestrian zones in cities such as Copenhagen, New York, and Barcelona, the project aims to revitalise North Sydney’s CBD by enhancing walkability, social interaction, and economic activity.

Business Sydney and NSC believe Miller Place would become the “beating heart” of the area, providing much-needed green space and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. However, the project’s progression hinges on securing NSW Government funding within the coming months.

Economic Growth and Urban Planning Challenges

North Sydney’s workforce is expected to grow by more than 20 per cent, from 80,000 to nearly 99,000 by 2036. Business Sydney’s Executive Director, Paul Nicolaou, has warned that delaying the Miller Place project could lead to higher costs in the future.

The transformation aligns with North Sydney’s ongoing urban development, which has seen over $11 billion in investment, making it the second-fastest-growing CBD in Australia. The newly opened Victoria Cross Metro Station has further increased the demand for accessible, pedestrian-friendly public spaces.

Lendlease’s Victoria Cross Project Director, Alex Frankl, has highlighted the potential benefits of the plaza, noting that it would provide outdoor space for approximately 5,000 workers in the precinct, complementing the upcoming commercial tower and the six new restaurants set to open on Miller Street in early 2026.

Why Miller Place? A Case for Public Space

Public space in North Sydney has remained limited over the past 50 years, with urban development prioritising commercial infrastructure over recreational areas. Studies indicate that pedestrian activity is expected to rise by 50 per cent by 2036, bringing an additional 22,000 daily users to North Sydney’s streets.

According to NSC, the area has significantly less public domain per worker than locations such as Barangaroo South and Macquarie Park. To maintain the current public space-to-population ratio, an estimated 16,000 square metres of additional public areas would be required.

The council envisions Miller Place as a vibrant hub featuring tree-lined walkways, seating areas, public art, and event spaces, creating a more welcoming atmosphere for workers, residents, and visitors.

Community and Business Support for the Plaza

City official Zoë Baker has emphasised the long-standing push for a pedestrian-friendly zone, dating back to the 1970s. The council argues that Miller Place will help revitalise the CBD by supporting local businesses, enhancing public transport connectivity, and providing a space for social interaction.

Local businesses and urban planners have also voiced support, citing the success of similar projects, such as the transformation of George Street in Sydney. Proponents argue that pedestrianisation boosts foot traffic, stimulates economic activity, and improves overall liveability.

Next Steps: Funding Decision Looms

With significant private investment already shaping North Sydney’s future, the success of Miller Place now depends on state funding. Advocates warn that further delays could lead to increased costs and lost opportunities for urban renewal.

Business Sydney and NSC will continue lobbying the NSW Government for financial backing. If funding is secured soon, the plaza could move forward in sync with the ongoing development of Victoria Cross, ensuring a seamless transition to a pedestrian-friendly future.

Published 20-Mar-2025

Remembering Gerry Nolan: A Lifetime of Community Service in North Sydney

Photo Credit: Facebook / Swami Ganga Mata

In the heart of North Sydney, few individuals have left as profound a mark on local community life as Gerry Nolan, who passed away on January 31, 2025, at the age of 84. A former mayor, community activist, and multifaceted individual, Nolan’s legacy is a testament to the power of grassroots engagement and passionate civic leadership.

Early Life and Diverse Career

Born in Whyalla, South Australia, in 1940, Gerry Nolan’s journey was anything but conventional. Growing up in rural South Australia with his parents and four brothers, he learned early about self-sufficiency and resourcefulness. Despite leaving school at 14, Nolan’s career would span an impressive array of professions: electronics technician, sailor, pilot, instructor, geophysicist, adventurer, author, editor, publisher, philosopher, lecturer, and mentor.

His professional path was as varied as his interests. From working at the Post Office to serving in the Navy’s Fleet Air Arm, from being a Qantas flight simulator technician to establishing his own pilot training school, Nolan embodied versatility and resilience.

Gerry volunteer working on the restoration of the Independent Theatre – circa 1995.
Photo Credit: Facebook / Mark McCann

Community Activism and Political Leadership

Nolan’s most significant contributions were to the North Sydney community. In 1972, he became a pivotal figure in establishing the North Sydney Creative Leisure Centre, responding to the challenge of “latchkey children”. This centre, now known as the North Sydney Community Centre, became a beacon of creativity and freedom for local children, featuring innovative play spaces like the memorable “flying fox” built by Nolan himself.

Photo Credit: North Sydney Community Centre

His community activism reached new heights when he successfully campaigned against a proposed high-rise development that threatened the civic precinct. His “Give North Sydney a Heart” campaign became a rallying cry that preserved crucial community spaces like Ted Mack Civic Park and the North Sydney Community Centre.

Mayoral Years and Progressive Vision

Encouraged by Ted Mack, Nolan ran for mayor in 1991 and was directly elected—a remarkable achievement for someone who had never served on the council. During his tenure from 1991 to 1995, he introduced groundbreaking initiatives. He was instrumental in creating the Neutral Bay Bus Interchange and advocating for the first 50 km/h zones in the state.

Nolan was ahead of his time in many ways. He wrote about flexible working arrangements in 1993, urged support for international landmine ban movements, and even raised the possibility of electric cars for North Sydney Council in 1991.

Personal Achievements and Philosophy

Later in life, Nolan pursued academic aspirations, earning a BA Hons in Philosophy from UNSW at 65. His approach to community engagement was beautifully summarised in his own words: “You can create all the right environments, all the right procedures, the protocols you like, for open government, but at the end of the day, people are going to have to get off their bums themselves and do something.”

Legacy and Commemoration

North Sydney Council has honoured Nolan’s memory by planning to plant a commemorative tree and rename the children’s playground at the North Sydney Community Centre as the ‘Gerald Nolan Adventure Playground’.

Current Mayor Zoe Baker perhaps best captured Nolan’s impact: “Gerry lived a large life marked by energy, charm, and generosity. His legacy shaped much of what we hold dear in this community—the spaces and places for people, particularly children.”

Photo Credit: Facebook / Florence Florence

Gerry Nolan is survived by his daughters Sarah, Emma, and Kay, leaving behind a rich legacy of community service, creativity, and commitment to local governance.

Published 28-February-2025

North Sydney Olympic Pool Redevelopment in Milsons Point Delayed Amid Cost Disputes

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

The completion of the North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment in Milsons Point has been pushed back to June 2025, with ongoing disputes over cost variations.

Initially scheduled for completion in mid-2024, the project continues to face delays, primarily due to issues surrounding the structural steel roof over the 25-metre indoor pool.

Project Background and Delays

The North Sydney Olympic Pool, a historic swimming facility located at Milsons Point, has been undergoing redevelopment since March 2021. Originally set to reopen in 2023, the project has faced multiple setbacks, with its timeline now extending 11 months beyond the revised July 2024 completion target.

The latest delay is attributed to complications involving the structural steel roof over the 25-metre indoor pool, which has been a point of contention between the NSC and contractor Icon. Cost disputes related to rectification work on the roof have resulted in mediation and adjudication, with some claims being ruled against.

Since December 2024, Icon has submitted four new Extension of Time (EoT) claims, of which three were rejected by the authorities, while the fourth remains under assessment.

Financial Impact and Cost Variations

The total forecast cost for the redevelopment remains at $122 million. However, as the project nears completion, additional variation claims are expected.

The revised construction contract sum is $91.74 million, with $173,000 in newly approved variations. Confidential discussions are ongoing regarding further cost adjustments, as authorities continue to evaluate the financial implications of unresolved claims.

Olympic Pool redevelopment in Milsons Point — *Photo Credit: Martin Harrison/Google Maps*

Construction Progress and Current Status

Despite the delays, several key milestones have been reached:

Structural Steel Ramp Completion: The Eastern Stair Tower ramp is now in place, improving accessibility for wheelchair users and prams.
Gelato Bar & Sundeck: The Level 2 gelato bar and sundeck structure are nearing completion, with the final paving set to be installed.
Amenities & Tiling: Underfloor heating and tiling in Level 1 changerooms are finished, and waterproofing has been completed for Level 1 amenities. Level 3 is next in line for similar work.
Internet Cabling: The facility’s internet infrastructure has been connected, preparing the site for operational readiness.

Community Sentiment and Next Steps

Local officials have emphasised that their priority remains delivering a high-quality facility. However, ongoing construction delays and cost disputes have drawn criticism from residents and stakeholders.

Once construction is complete, an additional three months will be required for commissioning and site preparation before the facility officially opens. Authorities have stated they will continue monitoring project developments and providing regular updates.

Published 26-Feb-2025

North Sydney Residents Force Change to Bridge Ramp Project

Photo Credit: TransportforNSW

North Sydney residents successfully campaigned against planned night works for the new Sydney Harbour Bridge bike ramp, leading Transport for NSW to revise its construction schedule.

Community Concerns Lead to Schedule Change

North Sydney Residents Force Change to Bridge Ramp Project — *Photo Credit:* *TransportforNSW*

The transport department proposed accelerated night construction between 6 pm and 7 am, four nights a week from February to July, to speed up the $38.9 million cycleway project. This plan sparked significant opposition from Milsons Point residents, some of whom live as close as 30 metres from the bridge.

Locals expressed strong concerns about the noise from jackhammering and piling during sleeping hours. A Milsons Point community precinct representative said residents felt disregarded by the transport department’s initial plans. Following the community feedback, Transport for NSW confirmed they will not proceed with the accelerated night works and will adhere to the originally approved construction schedule.

Project Aims to Improve Accessibility

The project will replace the existing 55 stairs with a 170-metre-long, 3-metre-wide ramp, improving access for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The new ramp will connect the Sydney Harbour Bridge to Milsons Point and is anticipated to increase the cycleway’s usage, which currently sees up to 2,000 weekly trips.

The design incorporates Moruya granite, matching the bridge pylons, and features Indigenous artwork by Aboriginal artists, acknowledging the Gadigal and Cammeraygal lands. The ramp will link to a new 150-metre two-way cycle path and shared zones in Milsons Point. With the $2.5 million funding grant, Bradfield Park will also see improvements, including new footpaths, a plaza, and a bike repair station.

Long-Term Vision for Cycling Network

The project, slated for completion in 2026, is expected to create around 700 jobs. Transport officials have emphasised the project’s importance in connecting the bridge’s cycleway to wider cycling networks, including future links to Gore Hill and Epping Road cycleways. After extensive community consultation, the North Sydney Council and the Heritage Council chose and approved the ramp design.

While some local residents opposed the project, the need for improved accessibility was a key driver. The project has been under discussion for over a decade, with cyclists advocating for a better solution to the stairway challenge.

Published Date 11-Feb-2025

Heritage-Listed MLC Building in North Sydney Set for $365M Transformation

Photo Credit: DA/10.2024.00000387.001

A $365 million transformation plan has been submitted for the heritage-listed MLC Building in North Sydney, aiming to revitalise the iconic site by preserving its historic Miller Street wing while introducing a modern 22-storey commercial tower on Denison Street.

Originally designed by Bates Smart & McCutcheon and completed in 1957, the MLC Building was the first high-rise office tower in North Sydney and a significant architectural milestone in Australia.

MLC Building North Sydney — *Photo Credit: DA/10.2024.00000387.001*

However, its future has been the subject of extensive debate since 2020, when Investa first proposed its demolition. Following years of legal challenges and heritage assessments, the building was reinstated on the State Heritage Register in December 2023 after being briefly delisted.

MLC Building North Sydney adaptive reuse proposal — *Photo Credit: DA/10.2024.00000387.001*

Transformation Plan

The ambitious redevelopment project (DA/10.2024.00000387.001) seeks to honour the building’s heritage while introducing contemporary functionality and sustainability. Key aspects of the proposed transformation include:

Preservation of the Miller Street Wing: The existing façade, including its iconic glass curtain wall and terracotta tiles, will be fully restored to its original aesthetic.
Flood Mitigation Measures: Raising the ground floor to address recurring flooding issues from the Miller Street forecourt.
Modernised Interiors: The addition of a double-height lobby with integrated retail spaces to enhance tenant experience and street appeal.
Retail Activation: A new colonnade along Miller Street will host fine-grain retail spaces, while Denison Street will include additional retail offerings.

The redevelopment will introduce a 22-storey sustainable office tower in place of the Denison Street wing, designed to incorporate energy-efficient systems and meet NABERS sustainability benchmarks.

Restoration of MLC Building — *Photo Credit: DA/10.2024.00000387.001*

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the proposed upgrades, several challenges must be addressed, including:

Infrastructure Compliance: The building requires significant upgrades to meet contemporary fire and seismic safety standards.
Flooding Concerns: Existing drainage issues in the lower ground and basement levels remain a major challenge.
Public Engagement: The inactive façades facing Brett Whiteley Place need activation to better engage with the surrounding urban environment.
Traffic and Pedestrian Conflicts: The current vehicle access on Denison Street poses safety challenges due to its proximity to the new Metro station.

Stakeholder Collaboration

Investa has engaged with key stakeholders, including the Heritage Council of NSW, the North Sydney Council, and the North Sydney Design Excellence Panel.

These consultations have resulted in in-principle support for the transformation plan, with commitments to improving public access and ensuring the development aligns with heritage values.

Proposed upgrades — *Photo Credit: DA/10.2024.00000387.001*

Looking Ahead

North Sydney Council is now assessing the development application. If approved, the project promises to reinvigorate the MLC Building, enhancing the public domain, improving pedestrian safety, and positioning the site as a sustainable and commercially viable landmark.

Published 23-Jan-2025

North Sydney Residents Clash with Shore School Over Expansion Plans

Photo Credit: MP10_0150-Mod-4

A prestigious boys’ school, Shore, has ignited controversy with its proposal to increase student enrolment by over 400 pupils.

While the school insists the expansion will provide greater educational opportunities, residents fear the influx of students will exacerbate existing traffic problems and create safety hazards.

Shore, which currently educates 1690 students, plans to boost its student population by 450 over several years. This expansion would involve 378 additional senior students and 72 more prep students. However, residents in the surrounding area have voiced concerns about the potential impact on local roads, particularly during peak school hours.

Traffic Congestion Fears

Shore School — *Photo Credit:* *MP10_0150-Mod-4*

Peter Wilcox, a resident, described the current traffic situation around the school during pick-up and drop-off times as chaotic. He expressed concerns that the increase in students would worsen the congestion, making it “intolerable” for residents. Other residents echoed these concerns, highlighting the potential for increased traffic on already busy roads.

Student Driving Raises Safety Concerns

Adding to the traffic woes, some residents have reported students driving “recklessly fast” in “sporty cars,” raising concerns about pedestrian safety. They believe an increase in student numbers could lead to more cars on the road and heightened risks for those on foot.

Parking Pressures

Another point of contention is the potential strain on parking. Anna Howard, a resident, noted that off-street parking spaces are often occupied by students, leaving residents struggling to find parking in their neighbourhood. She described the situation as “almost intolerable” and worries that the school’s expansion will worsen.

School’s Response

A spokeswoman for Shore stated that the expansion plans were designed to consider the impact on the local community, including traffic, parking, heritage, landscape, amenity, and infrastructure. To mitigate some of the parking concerns, the school proposes to build 41 interim parking spaces on campus.

Traffic Modelling and Proposal Assessment

The school’s traffic modelling predicts a modest increase in vehicle trips during peak hours. The proposal, which modifies a previously approved concept plan, is currently being assessed by the NSW Government.

Published Date 20-Jan-2025

$38.9 Million Cycleway Project Transforms North Sydney’s Harbour Bridge Access

Photo Credit: TransportforNSW

Construction is underway on a $38.9 million cycleway project in North Sydney that will replace the 55 stairs leading to the Sydney Harbour Bridge with a modern, accessible ramp.

Revamping Accessibility for Cyclists

The new 170-metre-long and 3-metre-wide ramp aims to provide a seamless link between the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Milsons Point, making it easier for cyclists of all ages and abilities to navigate the area. Once completed, it is expected to boost the already significant daily usage of the cycleway, which currently sees up to 2,000 trips on weekdays.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Cycleway — *Photo Credit: TransportforNSW*

This development is part of a broader initiative to modernise the bridge while respecting its historical and cultural heritage. Materials for the project, including Moruya granite—the same type used in the original bridge pylons—are being sourced from across Australia.

Cultural and Historical Integration

The project’s design incorporates Indigenous artwork developed by Aboriginal artists Maddison Gibbs and Jason Wing, honouring the Gadigal and Cammeraygal lands. The paving design features themes drawn from local landscapes and waterways, creating a tangible connection to the area’s heritage.

The ramp will connect to a new 150-metre two-way cycle path and shared zones in Milsons Point, enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists alike. Improvements to Bradfield Park, backed by a $2.5 million funding grant, will include new footpaths, a pedestrian crossing, and a welcoming plaza with seating, a bike repair station, and a water fountain. These additions aim to create a vibrant community space for locals and commuters.

Economic and Social Impact

The project, expected to be completed by 2026, is generating jobs for approximately 700 workers. These roles range from construction to manufacturing, with structural steel bridge sections fabricated in Kurri Kurri and balustrades cast in Unanderra. The cycleway is anticipated to further cement North Sydney as a key hub for cycling enthusiasts, both locally and globally.

Calls to address the stairway challenge date back over a decade, with cyclists long advocating for an accessible solution. The linear ramp design, chosen after extensive public consultation, was approved by the North Sydney Council in February 2023 and by the Heritage Council in June 2023. While some local opposition was voiced, the need for improved accessibility prevailed.

Transport officials have highlighted that this project is a critical step in bridging the gap between the bridge’s cycleway and broader bike networks, including future plans to connect with Gore Hill and Epping Road cycleways.

Published 30-Dec-2024

North Sydney Drivers Rewarded with Demerit Point Removal in Road Safety Push

In a key initiative to promote road safety, more than 13,000 drivers in North Sydney have benefited from having a demerit point removed from their licenses, as part of a statewide campaign to encourage responsible driving.

Enhanced Road Safety in North Sydney

North Sydney, with its 76,020 license holders, has led to significant results in the NSW Government’s effort to improve road behaviour. According to Minister for Roads John Graham, “North Sydney drivers have responded commendably to our safety initiatives, with 13,069 motorists successfully maintaining a clean record and benefiting from the demerit point removal. This not only enhances individual driving records but also contributes broadly to road safety.”

State-Wide Impact and Continued Efforts

The demerit point removal program is part of a broader campaign targeting over one million NSW drivers who have kept a clean driving slate over the past 12 months. This initiative was designed in response to the alarming rise in road fatalities, which reached 369 deaths in the past year.

The program was conceived as an election promise to shift the focus from penalising to rewarding drivers, which has seen widespread participation across the state.

Demerit points North Sydney — *Photo Credit: Freerangestock.com*

Additional Insights from Broader NSW

Data from other parts of NSW also shows substantial benefits from the program. The Central Coast, for instance, had the highest number of drivers receiving a demerit point back, totalling 54,971. Western Sydney regions like Blacktown, Canterbury-Bankstown, Cumberland, Liverpool, and Parramatta also saw significant numbers of points removed, reinforcing the program’s reach and impact across diverse communities.

As Minister Graham further elaborated, “The reward of a demerit point removed has proven most valuable in areas where people heavily depend on their cars. This incentive for safe driving is making a tangible difference, with fewer fatalities and more responsible driving behaviours emerging as a result.”

Looking ahead, the NSW Government plans to extend the demerit point trial for another year while introducing stricter road safety measures. These include the integration of seatbelt enforcement through mobile phone detection cameras and an expansion in the number of mobile speed camera locations. These efforts underline the government’s commitment to reducing road tolls and enhancing driver safety across the state.

Check Your Demerit Points

Published 4-June-2024