Construction has commenced on a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over Manly Lagoon at Queenscliff, offering locals a safer alternative to navigating busy Pittwater Road.
The four-metre-wide shared-use bridge will connect Aitken Avenue and Hinkler Park, forming part of the regional pathway linking Brookvale and Manly. The project, funded by a $3.95 million grant from Transport for NSW, is expected to reach completion by April 2026, weather permitting.
According to Northern Beaches Council, the bridge will improve access to local shops, schools, playgrounds and recreational facilities whilst promoting active transport options for the community.
The project has progressed through several stages of community consultation since early 2022. Initial feedback showed overwhelming support, with 94 per cent of 285 respondents favouring the bridge due to safety concerns about the existing narrow structure, according to council documentation.
A second round of consultation between November and December 2024 attracted responses from 190 people, with their feedback helping to refine the final design.
Early construction works include site establishment and the removal of Casuarina trees identified as being in poor condition. Council has committed to planting replacement species in consultation with Manly Lagoon Friends once construction is finished.
A site compound will be set up adjacent to Hinkler Park for the duration of works, though access to both Aitken Reserve (including the playground) and Hinkler Park will be maintained. Any temporary closures will be notified in advance.
Most construction will take place Monday to Friday between 7am and 5pm, though some night works will be necessary. Nearby residents will receive advance notice before any after-hours activities commence.
The project required a Review of Environmental Factors, completed in September 2025, which assessed potential impacts on the site. An independent ecologist provided advice regarding ecological considerations. The review concluded that with proposed mitigation measures, the works would not result in significant environmental impacts.
Member for Manly James Griffin MP supported the project, which council says demonstrates commitment to enhancing connectivity across the Northern Beaches.
The bridge is one of several infrastructure projects recently completed or currently underway in the area, including renewal of the Stuart Sommerville Bridge at Queenscliff and footpath upgrades across 23 suburbs.
Residents can track the project’s progress through the Northern Beaches Council Your Say website.
Published 3-November-2025
