Wakehurst Parkway is a state-owned arterial road known for its frequent flooding that causes disruptions and safety concerns for Northern Beaches commuters.

Transport for NSW has announced it is moving ahead with plans to enhance safety and capacity along this vital transport corridor. With confirmed funding commitments in place, Northern Beaches Council is also gearing up to start works to address persistent flooding issues along this important local transport corridor.

What is our role?

Council is managing the flooding improvement works on behalf of Transport for NSW. These works complement and support the broader Transport for NSW project that focuses on improving safety and capacity. By working together, we hope to minimise disruptions and prioritise safety for the community.

Benefits

Safety is the primary concern for both the Council and Transport for NSW projects. The crucial improvements will benefit the community and road users with: 

• less flooding
• more reliability
• less traffic congestion
• better safety and efficiency. 

Where are the works located? 

Council's comprehensive infrastructure improvement program aims to reduce the frequency of flooding at four locations:

1. Oxford Falls Road (West)
2. Wakehurst Parkway at Oxford Falls (near Oxford Falls Grammar School)
3. Wakehurst Parkway at 'The Bends'
4. Wakehurst Parkway at Sydney Academy Sport

We identified these sites and recommended flood management options as a part of the Wakehurst Parkway Flood Mitigation Feasibility Study. In response to community feedback, we have revised The Bends concept design to achieve a balance between the much-needed infrastructure improvements and environmental sustainability. 

How much will it cost? 

An estimated $31.1 million is allocated for this program.

How is this being funded? 

As a state-managed road, the NSW Government is financing these improvements. Funding is sourced from the: 

•  $5 million from the NSW Government’s Stronger Communities Fund
• $26.1 million – from Transport for NSW in two stages, its initial $13.1 million committed in 2021 and the further 2023 election commitment of $13.0 million.

What's next? 

• Council's designs and environmental assessments for culvert upgrades at Oxford Falls Road West will be shared soon.
• Work at Oxford Falls Road West is expected to commence in early 2024.
• Council is working on refining the newly identified options for The Bends and will be progressing these in consultation with Transport for NSW to understand the potential construction impacts on traffic before finalising designs and associated approvals. One that work is complete, these will also be shared with the community.
• Transport for NSW's project on Wakehurst Parkway at Oxford Falls is expected to start later in 2024.

Council will make every effort to coordinate works with Transport for NSW in a complementary way to minimise the impacts of construction on the community.

Need more information? 

Read more information on Council's Flood Improvement works

Read more information on Transport for NSW's safety and capacity program