NSW to reduce Bradfield Park worksite this year

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24 September 2026

The NSW Government will begin scaling back the maintenance worksite beside the northern pylon of the Sydney Harbour Bridge this year, returning more of Bradfield Park to public use while retaining space for bridge maintenance.

The government said it would install upgraded hoardings and foliage around the site, which is being used for repainting and rust removal on the bridge. It will investigate opportunities to return further land to public use as work progresses ahead of the bridge’s centenary in 2032.

Transport for NSW will deliver landscaping, improved drainage and new turf during 2027 to address erosion. Bradfield Plaza, at the northern end of the park, will be extended with paved areas that could be used for markets and other community events. Transport will work with North Sydney Council on other possible improvements, including furniture, trees and vegetation.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the government supported the community’s desire for “a more accessible, attractive and functional Bradfield Park”.

“The previous Liberal Government allowed Bradfield Park to erode and decay, while installing and continually extending the presence of the temporary maintenance compound,” she said.

“We will renew and upgrade this iconic community asset, while returning more parkland at the site for all the community to enjoy.”

Council will begin work on a long-term master plan for the park. The government said future land ownership would balance Transport’s bridge and tunnel maintenance requirements with Council’s access to the site, but gave no timetable or further detail.

North Sydney mayor Zoë Baker welcomed the announcement. “I am grateful to the Minister for taking on community concerns raised by Council and welcome the commitment to collaborate with Council to provide certainty for and improve this iconic public open space,” she said.

State MP for North Shire, Felicity Wilson, warned “The detail matters. The government says works could continue until 2032, and there are still unanswered questions around the lawful use of the land, public health concerns, and when North Sydney Council will repair the amenity block, bus shelter, and playground.” But she also characterised the decision as a win for resident activism.