Waverley Council has voted to approve an alternative concept design for Bronte Surf Life Saving Club after much criticism over the initial 2020 plan. A sleek white design has now been submitted to replace the existing and now decaying 1970s brick building that houses the Bronte SLSC.
The initial $13 million revamp of the clubhouse came under fire for its size and infringing on existing open space.
The 120-year-old surf club has been pushing to demolish the ageing SLSC and toilet block on Bronte beach in Sydney’s east for many years, aiming to offer more space for lifeguards, improved storage, better toilet and showering facilities and a cafe to replace the existing kiosk.
Club president Basil Scaffidi said the negative response prompted the SLSC, along with Waverley Council, to reconsider the plans.
A report on the redesign said priorities included: Reducing the building’s footprint, mitigating noise, minimising the loss of views and green space, improving access to the coast walk, relocating the public amenities and improving the design to “address perceived privatisation of public space”.
Bronte SLSC was recently awarded the prestigious Club of the Year award at the Surf Life Saving Sydney Awards of Excellence.
