South Bronte Amenities Upgrade: Have Your Say

By Siriol Dafydd on May 24, 2019 in News

The view from the beach, Panovscott Architects.

Sometimes there’s really nothing better than a refreshing dip in the ocean, especially when you need to give yourself a break from sweating profusely in the sweltering summer heat. From keen-bean surfers and muscle-bound swimmers up at the crack of dawn year-round, to volleyball enthusiasts, casual beach bums and fair-weather paddlers, having a beach as a backyard is the stuff of dreams for many of us. And with so many beaches and outdoor pools to choose from, it’s no wonder thousands of visitors and locals alike flock to the Eastern Suburbs beaches.
One downside to beach life of course is the messy aftermath. That smug feeling you get from being enveloped by salty waves can quickly be replaced by sand lodged in less than ideal places the moment you step out on to the beach. And that’s where having top notch amenities nearby is absolutely essential, not only for your convenience but for the welfare of your intimate regions too.
The good folks at Waverley Council (presumably beach dwellers themselves) have long noted the need for better amenities at Bronte and have been working with the community to create an upgrade project. Having already completed two rounds of community consultation, Council has now placed the final concept designs on public exhibition from May 6 until June 6, 2019.
The new plans include additional outdoor showers, another shower in the female section, more wash basins in the male and female areas, as well as larger accessible amenities for females, males and families overall. The amenities block will also serve as a community hub with functional and accessible interiors, light and airy internal spaces and a roof terrace for socialising and such.
“The community told us during consultation for the Bronte Park and Beach Plan of Management (POM) 2017 that the upgrade of the area, particularly the amenity building, is a top priority, and we listened,” Waverley Mayor John Wakefield told The Beast.
Mayor Wakefield believes that the project will not only improve the quality of the amenities but will also enhance the facilities to support the growing needs of residents and visitors. To ensure this, he’s keen to receive further feedback from local residents.
“We want to know the community’s thoughts about the concept design which the community and key stakeholders including local swim clubs and Bronte Surf Lifesaving Club have helped inform,” Mayor Wakefield said.
“Architects Panovscott used the results of the previous consultation findings, along with feedback received during our community consultation workshops to develop a hybrid option of the most preferred options, which is now on public exhibition.”
“This will be an opportunity for wider community contribution, and feedback will be provided to architects to review for inclusion in the Development Application and detailed design stage,” said Mayor Wakefield.

If you have something that you’d like to get off your chest about the latest concept design, now’s your chance. You can view the updated plans on Council’s website and add your two cents’ worth by completing the survey at haveyoursay.waverley.nsw.gov.au. Go forth, have your say and enjoy your sand-free nether regions for evermore!