North Sydney Council considered a range of initiatives this week aimed at supporting housing affordability, improving community facilities, protecting public spaces and planning for future growth.
Balls Head and Berry Island centenary
North Sydney Council will mark 100 years since Balls Head and Berry Island were secured as public reserves, a milestone made possible by generations of local residents who fought to protect these harbourside bushland areas from development.
These treasured green spaces provide opportunities for recreation, community connection, education and cultural heritage, while preserving some of Sydney's most important foreshore landscapes.
A community event will be held later this year to celebrate the milestone and recognise the residents, community groups and volunteers whose advocacy ensured these places remain open and accessible for everyone to enjoy. New signage at the Coal Loader will help tell the story of the community action that shaped the Waverton Peninsula and continues to protect it for future generations.
Helping fund parks and public spaces
As North Sydney grows, so does the need for high-quality parks, community facilities and public spaces.
Council has strengthened its Infrastructure Contributions Plan to which helps ensure new development contributes towards the facilities and public spaces needed to support a growing community.
The plan helps fund local infrastructure including parks, playgrounds, community facilities, walking and cycling connections, and improvements to public spaces across North Sydney.
Have your say on Cammeray Parklands
The community can now have its say on the future of Cammeray Parklands as part of the Transport for NSW’s Western Harbour Tunnel project.
Community feedback will help inform Council's submission on the proposed Place Design and Landscape Plan, helping shape the future of Cammeray Parklands for current and future generations.
Better facilities for the Crows Nest community
Upgrades are on the way for one of North Sydney's busiest community facilities.
Approved building works will address ongoing maintenance issues, including roof leaks, helping ensure the centre remains a welcoming and functional space for community groups and residents.
Delivering faster planning outcomes for the community
North Sydney is already experiencing substantial housing growth, with 3,617 new dwellings approved since July 2024, more than 2,500 dwellings approved through State Significant Development pathways since December 2024, and thousands more in the pipeline.
In the same period, Council has dramatically improved its planning performance, reducing average DA determination times from 159 days in January 2025 to 83 days by the end of the 2025/26 financial year.
Indigenous names considered for Neutral Bay plaza
The naming of the new public plaza on Young Street will be considered further, with a focus on Indigenous naming options.
Additional advice will be sought before a final name is selected for the community space.
Other items on the agenda
- More affordable housing is on the way, with Council continuing work on an Affordable Housing Contribution Scheme to help increase the supply of affordable homes for key workers, young people and older residents, supporting a more diverse and inclusive community.
- Council endorsed public exhibition of a draft Modern Slavery Policy.
- Council is exploring whether swimming access can be provided at Badangi Reserve while protecting the area’s environmental, cultural and heritage values.
- Council formally recognised the contribution of retiring Director of Planning and Environment.