Northern Beaches Council has revealed it is making headway in the Wakehurst Parkway Flood Improvement Project, a crucial initiative to reduce frequent flooding along the state-owned arterial road, with $31 million in project funding now confirmed. 

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said that Council has been working with Transport for NSW to secure funding and coordinate flood improvements in parallel with otherer major state-led upgrades. 

"Northern Beaches Council and Transport for NSW are working together to enhance Wakehurst Parkway corridor with improved safety and connectivity for commuters," said Mayor Heins. 

"Despite significant delays while we aligned funding and project goals, I'm pleased to share that Council can now move forward to the next stages of the project.” 

Northern Beaches Council’s project aims to reduce the frequency of flooding at four locations - Oxford Falls Road West, The Bends, Sydney Academy of Sport and Wakehurst Parkway at Oxford Falls. 

Transport for NSW’s project features $75 million in funding for intersection upgrades and other safety and capacity improvements along Wakehurst Parkway between Frenchs Forest Road and Pittwater Road in North Narrabeen.

“It is great to see the NSW Government recognising the funding that is required to upgrade these assets, and Council is happy to play its part in bringing these works forward," says Mayor Heins.  

"Given that the Northern Beaches Council and Transport for NSW programs are intrinsically linked, it is vital that construction is integrated and delivered efficiently and cost-effectively, with minimal impact on the community. 

“We look forward to the ongoing support of Transport for NSW in addressing all the design and planning requirements that are still in front of us,” she added.

Council has progressed designs and environmental approval for both sites at Oxford Falls, which will achieve the required protection against flooding. Council has also revised options for The Bends reduce harm to the environment and increase potential for flood prevention. 

Council will progress the detailed design, approvals and procurement for the Oxford Falls Road West flood improvement works, including community consultation in early 2024. Council will also progress the alternative design at The Bends including concept designs, identification of likely environmental approvals and community consultation next year. 

Likewise, detailed design, approvals and procurement for the Sydney Academy of Sport flood improvement works are expected to begin later in 2024.

Progress will depend on relevant approvals from government agencies, statutory approvals, and acceptable funding arrangements with Transport for NSW and the NSW Office of Local Government.

The Wakehurst Parkway Flood Improvement Project is funded entirely by the NSW Government and Transport for NSW. 

Council will continue to provide community updates on this project at the project Your Say page.