The redevelopment work for North Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club has been confirmed to resume in 2025.
Work is expected to recommence as soon as investigations and final details are established.
Construction on the surf club, dubbed Project Phoenix, originally began in February 2022 with a sod-turning ceremony attended by then-prime minister and local MP Scott Morrison. According to the original construction program issued in November 2021, the project was expected to be completed by February 2023.
However, in late January 2024, construction came to an abrupt halt when the original contractor, Lahey Constructions, left the site and did not return to complete the project. Since then, the project has been at a standstill.
In May, the club attempted to engage a new builder to complete the work. However, further challenges led to the project being temporarily suspended.
In July, recognising that it could not deliver the redevelopment alone, the club requested assistance from Sutherland Shire Council, a major stakeholder in the project. Following a council meeting, the council agreed to take over and complete the project at an estimated cost of $9 million.
“Council is committed to supporting the renewal and upgrade of the North Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club. North Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club has been a vital part of the community for close to 100 years, providing essential volunteer lifesaving patrols, development of competition skills, and members’ fitness, training, and education services,” the council stated.
In September 2024, council issued an expression of interest to engage a new builder to deliver and complete the project. Several construction firms submitted proposals. The winning contractor has not yet been selected.
When completed, the redevelopment is expected to incorporate the modernisation of the existing club, alongside a new two-storey extension. There will also be a new upstairs bar-restaurant and downstairs kiosk.
Feros Group, which was awarded the contract to operate the food and beverage offering, has said it is still “fully committed” to the project.
“This project would not be possible without the ongoing support and financial contributions of Sutherland Shire Council, NSW Government via NSW Office of Sport Surf Club Facilities Program (SCFP) and Australian Government via the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development Communities Development Grants (CDG) program and the financial support of our sponsors and the personal time and effort of our members,” North Cronulla SLSC Board of Directors wrote in update.
“We acknowledge this support as a critical factor to the success of the project and on behalf of the members we extend our appreciation and gratitude for this continued support.”
Updated Wednesday 19 February, 2025 8:35am (AEDT): Council revised construction start date from “early 2025” to some time in 2025.