On Monday, 28 March work will commence on the $12 million refurbishment of the North Beach Bathers Pavilion.

Wollongong City Council’s General Manager, David Farmer, said that from Monday fencing would start to go up around the site with the pathway at the rear of the Bathers Pavilion being closed to the public from Tuesday morning.

“While construction is underway the pathway for pedestrian and cyclists at the rear of the Bathers Pavilion will be closed, as will the ramp leading from the pathway up to Cliff Road. We encourage pedestrians to detour along the Cliff Road footpath while the works take place,” said Mr Farmer.

“Temporary steps will be installed south of the Pavilion to provide access to the beach and temporary toilets will be located on the north side of the surf club.”

”The refurbishment will give the Bathers Pavilion a second lease of life and is an important milestone for Wollongong.”

The work involves extensive repairs to the building, replacement of concrete slabs affected by ‘concrete cancer’, the construction of a new viewing platform and equipment storage facilities for lifeguards and making all areas and amenities of the Pavilion accessible.

Other improvements include building a 3 metre wide promenade overlooking the beach in front of the building, widening the pathway for pedestrians and cyclists at the rear from 2.5 metres to more than 6 metres, coastal protection works in front of the Pavilion and replacement of the ageing retaining wall on the footpath / cycleway between the kiosk and the Pavilion. The plans also include provision for a café in the southern end of the building.

“We apologise for any inconvenience to the community while construction is underway. It is anticipated that the public pathway will reopen in time for the busy summer period,” Mr Farmer added.

To stay updated on the project, visit Council’s website at www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au