The Bare Island bridge provides access to Bare Island from the La Perouse headland. Originally constructed in 1887, the bridge is approximately 110 metres long and 4.5 metres wide. The island and bridge are a significant cultural and recreational landmark, attracting high volumes of visitors for tourism, recreation, education and community events.
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Current state of Bare Island bridge -
Bare Island, Kamay Botany Bay National Park
What does the project involve?
Due to its deteriorated condition, the bridge can only support limited pedestrian traffic. The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is delivering a renewal project that aims to protect the heritage significance of the bridge and to:
- improve visitor access and safety
- replace timber piles, substructure, decking kerbs and handrails
- install a new balustrade to meet current Australian Standards
- enable safe access for pedestrians and authorised vehicles.
How will works affect park visitors?
Bare Island will be closed from 24 August 2026 and is expected to remain closed until late 2027 while major repairs are undertaken on the timber bridge.
During construction, the precinct, including the access road, bridge, rock shelf and Bare Island Fort, will be closed to visitors. Fencing will be in place, and construction crews will be working on-site. Please follow all on-site signage and directions. Please note that there may also be temporary restrictions on water access beneath the bridge during construction works.
Bare Island Fort guided tours have ceased and will recommence when the bridge reopens in 2027.
Check this webpage for updated information.
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An artist's impression of completed repairs to Bare Island bridge -
An artist's impression of completed repairs to Bare Island bridge -
An artist's impression of completed repairs to Bare Island bridge -
An artist’s impression of the bridge closure and construction compound
Is the work consistent with the plan of management?
The repairs align with the overall strategy for the management of Kamay Botany Bay National Park, as outlined in the 2020 Plan of Management. The aims of this include:
- provide sustainable and safe facilities for visitors to use and enjoy
- improve accessibility
- promote the public’s appreciation and understanding of the park’s significant sites.
How will we protect park values?
Detailed environmental and heritage assessments will be undertaken. These assessments identify significant elements and outline mitigation measures required to protect the natural, cultural and historic values of the park and surrounding environment. The endorsed Review of Environmental Factors is now available to read.
Project stages and timeframes
- Investigation and assessment of bridge: completed (January 2025)
- Detailed designs and engineering: completed (August 2025)
- Approvals under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW) and Heritage Act 1977 (NSW): completed (March 2026)
- Procurement of contractor to undertake the works: completed (June 2026)
- Construction phase: commencing 24 August 2026
- Project completion: scheduled late July 2027
Project updates
Updates will be provided via this webpage as the project progresses.