The South Maroubra Surf Club, Surfing NSW and visitors to Arthur Byrne Reserve are all set to benefit from a new amenities building that is planned for the area. The building will house more accessible toilets for the general public, as well as storage facilities, an external wash bay and showers.

The BBQ facilities in Arthur Byrne Reserve and surrounding parklands are a popular place for families and friends to gather for picnics and recreational activities. In addition, the South Maroubra SLSC and Surfing NSW are located in this area and need more storage to look after their growing membership numbers.

"With the entrance to the Malabar Headland coastal walk as well as the Western Escarpment walking track in this area as well, it has become an increasingly popular place to visit. The existing surf club amenities don't meet today's minimum accessibility standards and a new, accessible building is needed for the benefit of the community," explains Councillor Danny Said, Mayor of Randwick.

"It's great that in addition to the amenities, we can provide extra storage facilities for the surf club and Surfing NSW, to ensure they can continue to grow and be an important part of the local community," says Mayor Said.

Council engaged an architect and consultant team to develop plans that would satisfy today's accessibility requirements and meet the needs of the local community, as well as provide storage for the local lifeguards, South Maroubra Surf Club and Surfing NSW.

“The plans look environmentally attractive, functional and will further enhance what is becoming a beautiful place in the City of Randwick. Well done to Council for making it happen!” Says Paul Fownes, South Maroubra Surf Club President.

Concept plans for the new building and storage area were approved by Councillors at the May 2021 Council meeting. A Development Application (DA) for the work has been submitted and will be on public exhibition soon for community comment.

Pending DA approval, Council will tender for construction of the facility and hopes to begin work before the end of 2021.

The plans include:

• Male and female amenities (including unisex accessible amenities and baby change facilities)
• A communal wash basin area easily identifiable within the park
• Cleaner's storeroom
• Storage areas for local Lifeguards, Maroubra SLSC and Surfing NSW
• Accessible paths and landscaped areas
• Accessible parking
• External wash bay and showers
• Natural ventilation

The complete plans and Council report from March 2021 can be downloaded here.