28 July 2025
The Berrys Bay waterfront is set for a significant revitalisation, with the NSW Government and infrastructure company ACCIONA unveiling plans to convert the former ship-building yard into a public parkland, complete with a new community hub.
In December 2022 Transport for NSW awarded the second and final stage of the Western Harbour tunnel to ACCIONA, adopting a new methodology involving tunnel boring machines for the harbour crossing. This updated approach, greenlit in January 2024, meant the temporary construction site slated for Berrys Bay was no longer needed, meaning a new public park could be constructed earlier.
Now freshly announced plans have been revealed showing the proposed layout of the park, which is set to feature accessible pathways along the shoreline, with amenities such as barbecue zones and children’s play areas, and a brand-new community pavilion. Central to the development is the redevelopment of Woodley’s Shed, which will be repurposed into a community pavilion. ACCIONA hopes the designs echo the form, materials, and historical functions of the site as a prominent shipyard and boat-building hub.
Woodley’s has been linked to Berrys Bay since around 1906, ceasing operations in 2011. The boat sheds and slipways stood as a symbol of a bygone era of industrial activity along Sydney Harbour. The company was renowned for its involvement in the restoration of numerous vessels, construction of yachts, launches, and other boats. Historically, the site also served as the Sydney Torpedo Depot.
The new facility will incorporate a covered public plaza and a community building, with provisions for a kitchen and office space. The design also pays homage to the site’s First Nations, Cammeraygal heritage, acknowledging its significance as a cultural landmark for fishing, gatherings, and harbour crossings via bark canoes.
This revitalisation project will complete a missing link on the Waverton peninsula, unlocking an area that has been off-limits for decades. It will establish a continuous foreshore path stretching from Carradah Park to Balls Head Reserve. The expansive 1.56-hectare harbour-front park will also feature new native flora and public art installations.
Students from local schools played a key role in co-designing elements for the new play facilities. Pupils from North Sydney Public School, 1st North Sydney Cubs, and Planet X Youth Centre contributed ideas for their ideal play spaces.
The seawall along the site will undergo stabilisation to prevent erosion, providing a secure base for the new foreshore walkways. This involves the removal of selected disused marine structures near the seawall. Initial works on the site include the demolition of derelict structures, such as the former refinery administration building, marine workshop, and various annexes, alongside general site preparation.
The new parkland is slated to open to the public before the Western Harbour Tunnel’s anticipated completion in 2028.