A story of five eels and constellations now guides walkers and cyclists across the Warringah Freeway, with the opening of North Sydney’s new art-infused Falcon Street bridge.
The new crossing is a welcome change for the estimated 800 pedestrians and cyclists who will use it every day. It provides a crucial east-west link between Falcon Street in North Sydney and Merlin Street in Neutral Bay, creating a seamless route separated from vehicle traffic.
The project’s construction was carefully scheduled during school holidays to reduce traffic delays on the freeway and limit night-time noise for the surrounding community. While the new bridge is now fully operational 24/7, sections of the old crossing are still visible and will be taken down over the next few months without affecting travellers.
Designed with the community in mind, the 187-metre-long structure is a significant improvement over its predecessor. The bridge deck is now 4.8 metres wide, giving walkers and cyclists plenty of room and reducing potential conflicts. For residents living nearby, privacy screens have been installed along the western edge.
The design also features integrated lighting for safe passage at all hours and a large shade canopy. This canopy is decorated with a “rain-inspired” Indigenous artwork that tells the traditional story of five eels, the stars, and constellations, turning a daily commute into a unique cultural experience.
This opening marks a key milestone in the multi-billion-dollar Warringah Freeway Upgrade. According to NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, the bridge is a clear sign of the project’s progress. She stated that the wider deck and better sight lines create a safer passage across the freeway, helping Sydneysiders stay active.
Echoing this sentiment, Labour MLC for Willoughby, Courtney Houssos, noted that the bridge is a fantastic addition for the lower north shore. She explained that it makes it much easier for locals to walk or cycle between the key suburbs of Cammeray, Neutral Bay, and North Sydney, strengthening community connections.
This Sunday, 7 September, fathers across North Sydney will be treated to something special as local dining establishments prepare their finest offerings for Father’s Day. Two standout venues in the area are pulling out all the stops to ensure dads enjoy a memorable meal.
The Greens, the transformed former North Sydney Bowling Club that now serves as a unique eatery, bar, café, garden and bowling green with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, is embracing the American South for Father’s Day with their Texas BBQ special.
The venue’s Father’s Day spread features a hearty selection of slow-cooked brisket, spiced chorizo, mac ‘n’ cheese bites, BBQ corn, and all the traditional accompaniments served on a single sharing platter. This approach allows families to gather around the table and enjoy a feast designed specifically with dad’s preferences in mind.
The restaurant’s outdoor courtyard offers the perfect vantage point for enjoying the surrounding scenery while sipping on a refreshing beverage, making it an ideal setting for a relaxed Father’s Day celebration with the family.
Soluna, the LA-inspired all-day diner in the vibrant heartbeat of Sydney’s lower North Shore, serves Italian-inspired fare in a relaxed, modern setting, and they’re opening their doors for both lunch and dinner on Father’s Day.
The restaurant specialises in hand-tossed pizzas from their wood-fired oven, house-made pasta crafted with care, and celebrates Italian artistry with their salumi station. For Father’s Day, dads can expect the full range of Soluna’s comfort-food offerings, from hearty bisteccas to their signature wood-fired pizzas.
According to the restaurant’s promotional material, they’re serving up “North Sydney’s best wood-fired pizza and house-made pasta – plus proper sized bisteccas and schnitzels” which they expect “will be a hit with the Dads”.
Soluna is part of North Sydney’s new Walker Street precinct, developed by Etymon Projects and led by chef Rhys Connell, formerly of Sepia, The Gantry and Melbourne’s Society.
Planning Ahead
Both venues are part of North Sydney’s evolving dining landscape, offering families in the local community quality options without having to venture far from home. Whether dads prefer the smoky flavours of American BBQ or the rustic charm of Italian cuisine, North Sydney’s dining scene is ensuring this Father’s Day will be one to remember.
North Sydney Council has unanimously voted to investigate the sale of a section of Edward Street to Sydney Church of England Grammar School (Shore), despite strong opposition from local residents who fear the move will worsen traffic congestion in the area.
At Monday night’s council meeting, councillors approved a motion authorising the chief executive to enter formal discussions with the prestigious boys’ school about purchasing the portion of Edward Street south of Lord Street. The section currently separates Shore’s senior and preparatory campuses.
Shore formally approached Council in February seeking to purchase the section of Edward Street south of Lord Street, according to council documents. The independent school, which charges annual tuition fees of up to $46,000, will be required to lodge a minimum $20,000 bond to cover the cost of council investigations.
Mayor Zoe Baker said that with the council facing significant financial challenges, all revenue options needed to be explored. The council is trying to generate revenue to overcome a “serious cashflow” problem brought about by an infrastructure project that has doubled in cost. The troubled North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment has ballooned to an estimated $122 million, not including a further $28 million the builder is seeking through legal action.
However, local residents have expressed fierce opposition to the proposal. Long-time Edward Street resident Maree Faulkner raised concerns about the impact on traffic flow and community access to heritage sites. She highlighted three main issues: the potential worsening of existing traffic chaos during school pick-up and drop-off times, restricted access for residents due to queues of vehicles and private traffic wardens, and reduced public viewing access to the historic Graithwaite house.
Graithwaite is a heritage-listed former private home and former hospital and now school administration building located at 20 Edward Street, North Sydney, which was added to the NSW State Heritage Register in 2002.
Other residents echoed these concerns, with one unnamed homeowner telling media that everyone would end up doing U-turns at the top of the street if the road closure proceeded. Another resident questioned whether the school was creating a proper drop-off area or simply building across the road, which could make traffic conditions worse.
Speaking on behalf of Shore headmaster Dr John Collier, school representative Sarah Taylor argued that residents opposing the sale would be acting against their own interests. The school’s statement outlined plans to move current traffic congestion to within its property boundaries through an internal ring road system with a turning circle. Shore also claimed the proposal would reduce demand for street parking by providing enhanced spaces within the school grounds.
The motion passed with support from councillors Jessica Keen, Angus Hoy and Shannon Welch, but only on the condition that a land swap for a small park on the street corner also be considered. Councillor Shannon Welch emphasised she did not want to see the council forced to sell community assets due to financial pressure, while Councillor Angus Hoy expressed relief that it would not constitute a fire sale situation.
Shore, established in the 19th century, is among Australia’s wealthiest schools with revenue approaching $100 million according to its most recent annual report. The school recently gained approval for expansion plans that will increase its capacity by 450 students.
This is not the first time Shore has sought to expand its footprint in the area. In November 2024, Council resolved to enter negotiations with SCEGGS Redlands regarding a similar proposal to purchase Monford Place, a cul-de-sac in Cremorne.
The proposal will now proceed to formal investigations, which must include traffic impact assessments, infrastructure evaluations, and community consultation before any final decision is made. Under NSW’s Roads Act 1993, councils can close and sell roads under specific conditions, including that the road is not required for current or future public use and that alternative access is available.
We’ve combed HMAS Platypus, HMAS Waterhen, Lavender Bay, McMahons Point, North Sydney, North Sydney Shoppingworld, and Waverton for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Alison Therese Chan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our first time to Antica and we had the best meal, perfectly cooked and presented. Excellent and attentive service as well. My rating on atmosphere is not about the restaurant as it was lovely & cosy and we were given a nice window seating, unfortunately we were seated near an extremely loud Asian lady whose grating voice will ensure my husband always remembers his birthday dinner here (and probably for the other diners in earshot)! Otherwise a really fantastic restaurant we will definitely return to!!
Dan King ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This place is a vibe. Great staff, great food. I come here for happy hour after work mainly. You can’t beat $2 oysters and $12 cocktails. Their dinner is beautifully finessed, I recommend the prawn starters and lobster main. Can’t believe they’ve only been here a year, it feels like they’re firmly part of the food culture of Sydney.
Garry S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Antica deserves more than 5 stars. This was my third time to enjoy an exceptional fine dining experience. I commented to my group that it gets better and better everytime we visit. The staff are friendly, welcoming and highly trained in providing outstanding service. All were outstandingly well presented in suit coats and some with ties. Highly professional and extremely attentive, without hovering. Antica is a very ‘classy’ establishment in a beautiful heritage building with amazing decor, right opposite the northern exit from Victoria Cross Metro Station in North Sydney. The Glasshouse Bar is a great place for pre dining cocktails and drinks with large, relaxing lounge chairs. The food was amazingly presented, flavoursome and substantial. Obviously there are outstanding chefs in the kitchen. Congratulations to everyone who works at Antica, and to the management for providing such an awesome dining experience. Will certainly be returning.
Dayle Z ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had a fantastic experience dining at this restaurant. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by how clean and well-maintained the space was. The environment feels fresh and welcoming, with a stylish but comfortable atmosphere that makes it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. One of the highlights of the meal was definitely the beer and oyster pairing (such a creative idea! The oysters themselves were incredibly fresh, and the touch of jalapeño added a surprising kick that elevated the flavor beautifully. It’s not something you come across every day, and I really appreciated the boldness of the combination. It worked amazingly well. You can tell that the staff put a lot of care into the whole experience& they were attentive, friendly, and very knowledgeable about the menu. Highly recommend this place if you are looking for quality food, great drinks, and a clean, comfortable setting. I’ll definitely be back to try more next time!
Mark Cheung ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had an incredible night at Poetica yesterday. While searching for the perfect restaurant, I struggled to find a place that ticked all the boxes—vibe, food, and location. Then I came across Poetica, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. The pricing was reasonable, especially considering the quality of the meat and other dishes, which were exceptional. The snapper was superb and the wood fired oven was to die for! I recommend All my friends to visit and we are more than happy to visit again with our loved ones. Thank you for an awesome experience!
Ksenia Efrimidi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had several things, grilled fish and meat, everything was tasty but my top dish was grilled cabbage with quite refreshing source with a great touch of pickles. Service was also very lovely as well!
Bryan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Well that’s a full flavoured food fusion.. Bahn mi rolls (and wraps) straying from the traditional Vietnamese meats to American-style smokey BBQ and I must say, very impressive Marlie’s. I had to try, now I have to come back to try it again. If you haven’t popped in, do yourself a flavour and give Marlie’s a go, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed
Sonia ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ behind the stairs / next to elevator, easy to miss well worth the hype ✨ popular corporate lunch spot 🧑💼 ⭐ BUSSIN big Joe salad bowl & rolls 🥗 🥪 👍 – juicy tender brisket 🐮, Asian pickled veges 🥕🌿 friendly service 😊 north Sydney prices tho 💰
Robert McDougall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Do yourself a favour and grab a bite from here. I had the Bad Boy wrap, it was delicious, so full of flavour and great value. They have great combos all ready to go on the menu, but awesome knowing you can modify along the way for that personal touch. Really nice vibe as well, where staff and owners are super nice, cheerful and friendly. Bonus with seating to relaxing out the front if you wish. Highly recommended, I’ll be back!
Diwa Venkata ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great food. Loved the vibe and the healthy options. Freshly served and delicious. I tried the teriyaki salmon salad and absolutely loved it. Also has Japanese katsu curry that I want to try again next week. Place is very tidy and modern.
Rayland Luiz ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This place is the best place ive eaten so far in North Sydney or Sydney in general. If you are looking for a perfectly seasoned lunch, breaky, salad, bowls this is the place to be. Very reasonable price and food is just 11/10. The owners are very nice too! Love it!!
Fatmat wilson ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Really nice and fresh food… prices are also really good.. the staff are always friendly …
katherina raharja ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Service was seriously awesome, super friendly and helpful staff. The place feels really comfy and chill. Food was sooo good, my nephew loved the kids Margherita! Oysters were super fresh, and all the cocktails we had were amazing. Definitely coming back!
erinxeats ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Really enjoyed this spot, especially the zucchini flowers and wood fired bread. The lamb was also fabulous!
Ralf Geisel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ After a business meeting we selected this restaurant for dinner. The pizza looked very delicious, so we ordered different style and shared. It is really delicious and the service also good and friendly. Nice place.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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’.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: NSC
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.
Photo Credit: NSC
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.
Photo Credit: NSC
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
