At this week's meeting Council considered a range of matters including policies for financial hardship and open space use, advanced plans for Berrys Bay, heritage upgrades, art initiatives and leases.
Reports to Council
10.1 Financial Hardship Policy
Council endorsed the public exhibition of a revised Financial Hardship Policy for 28 days. The updated policy broadens eligibility to include individuals and businesses, replaces rigid income tests with a flexible assessment model, and introduces a clearer application and appeals process.
10.2 Commercial and Group Use of Open Space Policy
A draft policy was endorsed for public exhibition to manage the use of public open space by commercial operators and large groups. The policy aims to balance community access with commercial use and proposes a fee structure to support maintenance of open spaces.
10.3 and 10.4 Berrys Bay Foreshore – Planning and Future Management
Council is progressing plans to transform the western foreshore of Berrys Bay into a vibrant public open space, reflecting strong community support for environmental restoration and recreational use.
A Planning Proposal will be prepared to amend the North Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2013, to remove outdated industrial zoning and enable future public access and ecological rehabilitation. The rezoning aligns with the Berrys Bay Masterplan.
Council also discussed long-term management strategies, including replacing the existing industrial shed with a community building and working with Transport for NSW to secure land tenure, ensuring the site supports sustainable and community-focused use.
10.5 Community Use of St Leonards Park
Council responded to a previous resolution regarding community use of St Leonards Park. The report highlighted a surge in informal use by nearby schools, with up to 500 students present on peak days, often without formal bookings. This has led to wear on park infrastructure and occasional conflicts over space with other users. Structured activities like Parkrun, which attracts around 400 weekly participants, continue under annual approval, though permanent signage was rejected due to heritage constraints. Council will instead promote Parkrun via its media channels.
10.6 Don Bank Museum – Roof Replacement
Following a successful NSW Government funding application, the roof at Don Bank Museum, North Sydney’s oldest timber house, will be replaced. The deteriorating shingle roof will be upgraded to a more durable material, ensuring the preservation of this heritage-listed site.
10.7 North Sydney Art Prize 2026
The biennial North Sydney Art Prize (NSAP) will be deferred from 2026 to 2027. The decision follows a strategic review of the event’s sustainability and delivery model. The deferral allows time to refine the format, secure sponsorship, and align the event with Council’s cultural goals.
The $150,000 budget allocated for 2025–26 will be redirected to critical infrastructure renewal. The revised NSAP aims to enhance artist opportunities and attract broader audiences to North Sydney and The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability.
10.8 Art Installation Honouring Local Women
Council endorsed a new annual art installation or event celebrating inspirational local women, aligned with International Women’s Day. Shaped by community nominations and guided by Council’s Public Art Policy, the initiative aims to build community pride and cultural recognition. Potential locations and themes were presented, with further community consultation to follow.
10.9 New Lease – 56 Alfred Street, Milsons Point
Council approved a new lease agreement for the property at 56 Alfred Street, Milsons Point, ensuring continued community or commercial use aligned with Council objectives.
10.10 Current Appeals and Results – July 2025
Council reviewed the status of current legal appeals and outcomes as of July 2025. The report provided updates on planning and development-related matters under appeal.
Read all the Council reports here: 11/08/2025 Council Meeting – North Sydney Council