Following extensive consultation, Northern Beaches Council has approved the Ivanhoe Park Masterplan and Plan of Management, celebrating the natural and heritage value of the popular Manly park.

Mayor Michael Regan said the draft Masterplan respects the history and heritage value of the Park and reflects the unique landscape of the site.

“Under our Masterplan, Ivanhoe Park will be transformed into a 'green' community hub; a safer, accessible and more enjoyable park for everyone in the community. This will encourage greater use which will provide social, physical and cultural benefits for the community.

"There will be a new central lawn area with grass terraces, improved entry into the Park and an upgraded path system, better fencing and border gardens and the Scout Hall will get a major facelift.

"The grandstand named after Tony Miller, is planned to blend in rather than being the dominant feature of the park. It would provide equitable access, fit for purpose change rooms, storage, amenities and security. It will be subject to State or Federal Government funding.

“The Masterplan will also protect and enhance the State Heritage listed landscape character of the Park and support the native and Victorian plantings found in the Botanic Gardens.”

Council will now proceed to reclassify the Scout Hall for community use and will submit a Conservation Management Plan to the Heritage Council of NSW for approval.

The Masterplan and Plan of Management have been the subject of comprehensive community engagement, receiving 82% support when final draft versions were publicly exhibited in August/September this year.

It is expected that the Landscape Masterplan will take five to six years to implement in stages. The proposed Grandstand can only proceed with funding from the Federal or State Government.

The Conservation Management Plan contains policies that will assist in preserving the park's heritage and sets a planning framework for any future development that may take place within the Park.