Progress
Following the installation of the 217 concrete piles, a permanent sheet pile barrier was installed to complete the foundation of the seawall.
Most of this structure has been buried to provide a working platform to allow for access for plant and machinery to fabricate the next step – a capping beam to connect all the piles.
The first section of steel reinforcement was formed up in November and the pouring of concrete has subsequently progressed, working around thunderstorms and high tides.
To reduce the possibility of cracking, thermal variance between the exterior and interior of the concrete mass is being monitored. Strict procedures are in place in relation to curing of the concrete and saw-cutting of joints to control the location of shrinkage cracks. There will be multiple concrete pours throughout summer to construct these elements.
Program
The date for completion, including promenade works and landscaping, is still forecast by the head contractor and NSW Public Works for April 2024. This is subject to adverse weather and any latent site conditions. Shark Beach will remain closed to visitor access until completion.
Construction shutdown
The work site will be closed between Friday 22 December 2023 and Monday 1 January 2024.
All portions of the site remain closed to the public, including Shark Beach, and will be closely monitored by security staff and cameras.
Work will restart on Tuesday 2 January 2024.
Visitor access
Visitors are reminded that Shark Beach and the promenade are construction sites, and safe access for visitors is not possible. We ask that visitors refrain from entering the construction site by either water or through the fencing, as even the portions of the beach outside the immediate works area contain hazards and cannot be safely accessed.
We understand the frustration caused by delays and would like to thank the visitors and residents for their patience during this once-in-a-lifetime project.
Did you know?
Nielsen Park used to have a diving platform. Built by the Nielsen Park Trust in 1931 as part of an upgrade to the swimming area along with 2 floating platforms and anchored netting. Swimmers brave enough to make the plunge had to leap from a 12-metre-high platform into the water below.
Deterioration of the timber and storm damage led to the tower's removal in 1968.
