Council submits DA for community building
Northern Beaches Council has submitted a development application (DA) for the new community facility at Jamieson Park, Narrabeen Lake, after a fire destroyed the previous facilities in 2021.
The new building, estimated to cost $5.3 million, will offer more storage areas for clubs such as Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club (NLSC), model boat and dragon boat groups. It will also provide a café for public and club use, accessible shower and toilet amenities, watercraft facilities and a meeting room available to both the public and clubs.
NLSC’s publicity officer David Loomes said the club was ‘very happy’ with the design of the new building.
“It gives us what we have asked for – more storage space – which is the important thing, but also a meeting room and a little kitchen,” said Mr Loomes. “The only thing we’re not happy about is the delay. We won’t get it until 2028.”
The club has been making do with temporary storage containers to store its sailing fleet and equipment since 2021.
‘This facility will transform our community space, offering greater access and improved amenities for all residents.’
Mayor Sue Heins
“Council gave us five containers,” said Mr Loomes. “With help from the public and donors, we managed to replace small boats used for coaching. There is very little space for larger boats, herons and lasers, which are part of the club. So members have to keep their boats at home or elsewhere off site and bring them down each sailing day.” Council also provided two sheds to the club, which were fitted out as a changing room and meeting room, and they use a gazebo for protection.
Mayor Sue Heins said it was gratifying to see progress made on the Narrabeen Lake amenities at Jamieson Park.
“This facility will transform our community space, offering greater access and improved amenities for all residents,” Mayor Heins said. “We’re committed to creating a sustainable and inclusive environment that everyone can enjoy.”
Council negotiated an insurance payout of $1.9 million for the building destroyed by fire, and the shortfall to make up $5.3 million will be funded with $500,000 from the 2026/27 special rate variation, and additional funds to be sourced through grants in 2027/28.
“Council undertook lengthy negotiations with the insurance company to secure proper compensation for the destroyed structure to enable funding of the new amenities,” said Mayor Heins.
Council said that past experiences had shown the likelihood of success was greatly improved with an approved DA consent, or even now the DA had been lodged.
The DA will be assessed by Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel and development will begin as soon as practical after the DA is approved.
The design of the new building has prioritised accessibility and inclusivity, featuring improved public amenities, accessible toilets, compliant access ramps and wheelchair-friendly structures to cater for people with disability or limited mobility.
Sustainability measures have been integrated, including solar panels, rainwater reuse systems and passive energy design. The building design has taken an environmentally sensitive approach, respecting the surrounding lake and its flora and fauna.
Council will keep the community updated on progress and timelines.
