North Head visitor access improvements

NPWS is planning to carry out the following works to improve visitor pedestrian safety, public transport connections, whole-of-headland links and stormwater management along North Head Scenic Drive:

• construction of a footpath on Scenic Drive, connecting to the existing footpath networks; the works will improve all-abilities access throughout the headland
• relocation of the northbound Q Station bus stop away from the roundabout and to a new bus bay in a safer location nearby with upgrade of the southbound stop
• upgrade of existing in-lane bus stops to bus bay near the North Fort Road and Scenic Drive intersection
• construction of raised pedestrian crossings to provide better linkages into the North Head Sanctuary precincts and walking tracks
• construction of kerb and gutter along footpath to improve stormwater drainage and treatment.

NPWS has identified several safety concerns, with visitors using the gravel shoulders of North Head Scenic Drive as a walking path out to the lookouts, creating the potential risk for a pedestrian–vehicle collision.

The works will also address the unsafe configuration of bus stops at the Q Station entrance to improve visitor safety and traffic safety and visibility through the intersection.

The proposed drainage works will alleviate ongoing maintenance of potholes and water pooling on the Scenic Drive, improving safety for cyclists and drivers.

North Head Scenic Drive will remain open to traffic during the works. A Traffic Management Plan will be in place to manage access during the works. Temporary signage will be in place to direct pedestrians to the lookouts via North Fort Road.

The aim of the works is to address the existing safety concerns for users along the Scenic Drive and bus stops.

A path along the Scenic Drive allows for an accessible route for all abilities to access the Q Station and North Head lookouts. As part of the works, we are also improving and creating additional connections into the existing walking trail network.

The proposed footpath is for pedestrians only. At this stage there are no plans to create a bike lane. The works will upgrade the existing speed humps to improve the cycling experience along the Scenic Drive.

We will carefully manage the project to ensure there are no impacts on threatened vegetation or wildlife species. This includes the eastern suburbs banksia scrub threatened ecological community, bandicoots and other small mammals. We have conducted rigorous environmental assessment of the proposed works with input from relevant specialists, in accordance with NSW planning legislation.

Native vegetation

By utilising the existing gravel road shoulder as much as possible, the proposed footpath design minimises impacts to existing vegetation. NPWS has engaged an ecologist to undertake investigations and inform the plans. Monitoring will also be conducted during the construction process.

Bandicoot habitat

A project ecologist will undertake targeted surveys ahead of construction and will monitor and advise to avoid impacting bandicoot nests. Improved drainage along Scenic Drive will control and filter run-off, preventing erosion of their habitat.

NPWS has undertaken early engagement consultation with the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Trust, Q Station lease, Manly Health and Wellbeing Precinct Team and the local Member of Parliament and electorate office. Their feedback and queries have helped inform and shape the concept design as it appears now.

Questions and feedback about the project were accepted until 27 February 2026.

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