Plans to construct a new $20 million surf club at a beloved Sydney beach have ignited a wave of criticism from locals who label the design as excessively ‘masculine’ and an ‘eyesore’.
Following over two years of community consultations, the proposal to demolish the aging two-story clubhouse, which has stood for 43 years, has been unveiled for public input.
The Northern Beaches Council has put forward a development plan suggesting the new facility feature two function rooms, a bar, and upgraded amenities.
However, the proposed three-story design has sparked disapproval among residents who feel its ‘brutalist’ architectural style is at odds with the laid-back coastal essence of Manly.
“The aesthetics of this structure will negatively impact the community vibe in Manly,” remarked local resident Gina Hill. “It appears heavy, masculine, and harsh.”
Another community member expressed frustration, stating, “So when the council claimed it was short on funds, raised our rates, and shut down local childcare, it was to build a function center disguised as a surf club.”
‘Let’s hope it never has pokies, but I wouldn’t bet against it.’
‘Can’t say I’m a big fan. Looks huge and overbearing for the space. Do we really need three-storeys high? Bigger isn’t necessarily better. Losing the charm of Manly and making it into another Bondi… disappointing,’ a third wrote.
The current surf club at Manly Beach, which was built in the 1980s, is pictured
Plans for $20million renovation of the surf club at Manly Beach have been slammed as ‘too masculine’ and an ‘eyesore’ by furious locals (a render of the new club is pictured)
Locals also shared concerns about plans to expand the building’s footprint by about 10 per cent on the ground floor.
‘”Expanded footprint of about 10%”… What? Are we looking at the same renders?’ one man wrote.
‘Definitely is more than 10%, looking at the construction they are just putting up now it looks huge!! So unnecessary,’ a second agreed.
‘The scale of the club is over bearing and unnecessary,’ a third wrote.
‘I don’t see the justification for an open foyer area and two function levels other than revenue generation for Northern Beaches Council.
‘The encroachment on the thoroughfare to and from Shelley will create a bottleneck that will be unresolvable.’
‘An architecturally sophisticated new building would be welcomed by the community. However, this is not the solution,’ a fourth wrote.
Manly Life Saving Club president Tin Cuthbert said the current surf club was ‘falling apart and not complying with any form of accessibility’.
Locals say the ‘brutalist’ architecture of the new club is out of keeping with the rest of Manly
New newly proposed Manly Life Saving Club has been met with debate from both sides
He noted that since its construction in the 1980s, club membership has surged by 430 per cent.
‘This isn’t just a clubhouse, it’s a community safety hub and learning space for everyone who loves Manly Beach,’ he told the Australian Financial Review.
‘Every improvement we’re making directly supports faster rescues, better training, and a more inclusive, sustainable community facility.’
Independent member for Warringah, Zali Steggall, said the new club was ‘essential’.
‘It has been unfortunate that it has divided the community. Ultimately, I don’t think everyone is ever going to be happy with the design,’ she told the publication.
‘The community has raised concerns with me that the size and cost of the redevelopment will be substantially larger than anticipated. No one wins if the project can’t proceed because it’s so large that it can’t be funded.’
Other locals said the new surf club had been a ‘long time coming’.
‘A community redevelopment that supports lifesavers, locals, visitors and youth development for the future. This will ensure operations for lifesavers and lifeguards are fit for purpose into the future,’ they wrote.
Some have argued the increased footprint was a negative to the community
‘Ripping. Looks like it will be a fantastic heavily used facility for all! Great addition to Manly,’ another said.
Daily Mail has contacted Manly Life Saving Club and the South Steyne Heritage Action Group for further comment.
