Construction is progressing on refurbishing Brick Pit Reserve in Frenchs Forest, a key component of the new Frenchs Forest Town Centre development. The upgrade aims to revitalise the historic park with modern recreational facilities while preserving its environmental and historical significance.
A Historic Site with a New Purpose
Brick Pit Reserve, located at the intersection of Warringah and Bantry Bay roads, sits on the former site of William Hews’ brickworks. The brickworks once supplied materials for early brick homes in the Manly area before ceasing operations around World War I. The site later became a community park, but its landscape was significantly altered by the construction of the Northern Beaches Hospital and upgrades to Warringah Road.
With the Frenchs Forest Town Centre now taking shape, the NBC spearheads a park refurbishment to serve local residents, hospital staff, and visitors.
What’s Included in the Upgrade?
The revitalisation of Brick Pit Reserve involves:
- A nature-themed playground with climbing structures and embankment slides.
- A boardwalk looping around a central pond incorporating elements that reflect the site’s historic brickworks origins.
- A picnic shelter, open lawn areas, and viewing decks with seating for visitors.
- A new amenities block to improve accessibility.
- Enhanced landscaping, including tree plantings and stormwater gardens, to improve water quality before runoff enters Manly Dam.
- A 2.5m-wide shared path for pedestrians and cyclists, linking the reserve to surrounding areas.
- Parking improvements, with 13 upgraded spaces on Bantry Bay Road, including two accessible bays.
The upgrade is being funded by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure as part of a broader plan to create 1,000 new dwellings in the town centre and another 1,000 homes in nearby residential zones.
Community Input and Concerns Addressed
The project underwent community consultation from March to May 2022, gathering 100 submissions from residents. 66% of respondents supported the concept plan, while 24% requested changes. Some concerns raised included:
- Mosquito control measures around the pond.
- Preserving the bike track within the reserve.
- Maintaining a balance between nature and infrastructure to retain the park’s character.
The NBC integrated feedback into the final design. The authorities assured the community that environmental considerations, including mosquito management and stormwater filtration, were prioritised.
Part of a Larger Green Space Initiative
The Frenchs Forest Town Centre Park Upgrades project also includes Akora Reserve and Rabbett Reserve, will be refurbished using developer contributions from high-rise residential projects. The upgrades aim to ensure green spaces remain accessible despite increased urbanisation.
The open space strategy focuses on multi-use parklands, improved reserve connectivity, and natural rehabilitation to offset the town centre’s growth.
What’s Next?
Construction at Brick Pit Reserve commenced in September 2024. It is expected to be completed by April 2025.NBC has committed to keeping residents informed as the project progresses. Further updates are available on its official website.
Published 21-Feb-2025
