District Park will remain in public ownership with an 18 hole golf course and an enhanced multi-sports facility for the whole community following Council’s decision last night.

And in a plus for local clubs, Council’s decision will mean Warringah Golf Club now has an opportunity to be at the table in discussions to ensure the best outcome for the community.

Following acknowledgment of the significant community engagement on this project over a number of years, Council voted to decline to accept all tenders and negotiate with the top ranked tenderer, Arena REIT as the closest to fulfilling Council’s service expectations.

This enables Arena to enter into discussions with Warringah Golf Club directly. These discussions were not previously possible as both were parties to the tender process.

Mayor Michael Regan said this was the best outcome for the community.

“This is the way forward to ensure there is opportunity for some of our vital community clubs to be heard,” he said

“We’ve all wanted the same thing all along – a multi-sports facility for the whole community that is expertly run and enjoyed by a range of sports users.

“I understand the community’s concern and can confirm that this will mean the land stays in public hands, facilities receive a badly needed upgrade, an upgraded 18-hole golf course, and no residential development“

“This decision means we are a step closer to seeing upgraded, state of the art facilities at District Park which will remain in public ownership for all the community to enjoy.”

Mr Regan said the Council also decided to facilitate a meeting between Warringah Golf Club and North Manly Bowling Club to resolve the ongoing operation of the Bowling Club for the next 12 months.

“Council has already offered the Manly Leagues Club a 12-month extension on their lease and even offered to the Bowling Club to maintain the greens so they can keep operating while a solution is found.

“I think there is a way forward for the next 12 months which would benefit both the Golf Club and the Bowling Club and I am pleased Council is stepping in to help facilitate that.”