19 November 2025
Plans for a $1.32 million redevelopment at 1 Henry Lawson Avenue, McMahons Poin have been shelved, with Council resolving to pursue a more comprehensive masterplan for the Blues Point foreshore precinct.
The decision was formalised at a Council meeting on August 11, 2025, following a Mayoral Minute considered on July 28, 2025. The withdrawn Development Application, lodged by Council staff on January 28, 2025, proposed a major overhaul of the site. The works included partially demolishing the existing dilapidated boat shed to make way for a new structure featuring a coffee kiosk and public toilets, alongside improved pavement, a new footpath, a pedestrian boardwalk, a public viewing platform, and kayak storage.
However, Council concluded the initial plans were “premature and overlooking the opportunity to adopt a more integrated and strategic approach to planning and delivering improvements to the foreshore area. Council has a unique opportunity to transform the Blues Point precinct to celebrate the rich heritage, enhance public access, and create a beautiful public domain as a legacy for future generations.”
The focus now shifts to creating a new masterplan for the entire Blues Point foreshore corridor, which stretches approximately 400m from the McMahons Point Ferry Wharf to the Blues Point headland. This strategic plan aims to combine the area’s various elements to enhance its function, beauty, and accessibility.
The new masterplan process is projected to take 18 months and is estimated to cost between $1.0 million and $1.2 million. The budget for this initiative is currently factored into the 2027/28 financial year, dependent on securing funding through grants, additional rates, other income sources, or operational savings. Council has committed to seeking widespread community input throughout the plan’s creation.