Australians have blasted plans to close a popular swimming spot in the heart of Sydney right before summer begins.
Marrinawi Cove, in Barangaroo Reserve near the CBD, opened in 2023 and was the first city beach west of the Harbour Bridge in more than 50 years.Â
It quickly attracted large crowds as it offered the perfect place for a lunch break or after-work dip, along with spectacular views of the harbour.
But as spring finally brings some warm weather, it was revealed this week that the state government will close the spot for three months while it undergoes a revamp.
The plan, a result of feedback from 500 visitors, includes a new decking platform, an outdoor shower, and non-slip stairs in an attempt to address concerns that the rocks at the beach are unsafe, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.Â
Sandstone blocks around the water will be repositioned to allow for extra space for towels.Â
There is also expected to be an expanded swimming area with a realigned shark net and a depth marker to help with safety.
It is understood that the developers’ contributions will solely fund the upgrades.Â
Marrinawi Cove at Barangaroo (pictured) will shut for three months from September 22
The harbour swimming spot (pictured) will be fitted with new non-slip stairs and decking
‘We couldn’t have anticipated just how popular swimming at Marrinawi Cove would become,’ Lands Minister Steve Kamper said.
He confirmed that construction will begin on September 22, with the site due to re-open by mid-December.
‘These upgrades are about responding to that popularity and making sure the space is safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone,’ he said.
But locals on social media have questioned why nothing had been done during the winter months instead of waiting until spring when more people are likely to go for a dip.
‘Perfect timing, couldn’t have been done in the winter,’ one person quipped.Â
‘I swim there every day rain, hail or shine. Very weird decision given the time of year, had winter to close it,’ another said.
But others said they were eagerly awaiting the reopening:Â ‘Although I am devastated to say goodbye to a friend for a few months, I am confident about the beauty of her return.’
Another added: ‘There are other beaches to go to, guys. Don’t be too upset about it.’
Locals have questioned the timing of the closure, with some asking why the work was not completed over winter (above, swimmers at the cove)
It is understood the upgrade to Marrinawi Cove is part of a larger plan to improve accessibility on Sydney’s foreshore.Â
Kamper said the government was ‘committed to ensuring Barangaroo remains a vibrant, accessible foreshore that reconnects people with the harbour’.Â
The changes have also been welcomed by Millers Point Resident Action Group’s Yasmina Bonnet.
She told the Herald the community has previously called for an expanded swim area and improved accessibility for the elderly and less mobile visitors to the beach.
‘Sydneysiders love a good harbour swim,’ she said.
‘If the larger Nawi Cove, just near Barangaroo metro station, was also swimmable in the future, that would be fabulous.’Â
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Aussies outraged after popular swimming spot in the heart of one city CLOSES right before summer