Tag: Northern Beaches development

Town Centres Including Dee Why Set for More Homes Under New Policy

Photo Credit: UDIA NSW

Town centres in Dee Why and across the Northern Beaches, are set for major residential changes under a new policy allowing medium-density housing near key transport and commercial hubs.

Read: https://deewhynews.com.au/dee-why-town-centre-targeted-under-nsw-rezoning-policy/

Housing Growth Across the Northern Beaches

The Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, introduced from July 2024, has reshaped residential zoning across Greater Sydney. It allows housing up to six storeys within 400 metres and up to four storeys within 800 metres of town centres and transport hubs.

Dee Why, Mona Vale, Forestville, and Frenchs Forest are among nine Northern Beaches centres affected. The changes apply to more than 11,000 properties and aim to deliver 112,000 new homes across New South Wales over five years.

Northern Beaches development
Photo Credit: UDIA NSW

New Planning Controls and Design Standards

In September 2025, Northern Beaches Council amended its Manly, Warringah, and Pittwater Development Control Plans to preserve local design quality, heritage, and sustainability standards. The updates ensure that new developments reflect neighbourhood character despite broader state planning reforms.

These adjustments maintain requirements for landscaping, site layout, and setbacks while aligning with the new policy’s density goals.

Impact on Dee Why and Other Centres

In Dee Why, medium-density housing such as townhouses, terraces, and apartments will be permitted within walking distance of the town centre. Projects within 800 metres can reach four storeys, while those within 400 metres may rise to six storeys or 24 metres.

This mirrors similar developments in Mona Vale and Forestville, both designated for greater housing diversity under the same policy.

Dee Why housing
Photo Credit: UDIA NSW

Infrastructure and Community Concerns

Some community representatives have raised concerns about the lack of infrastructure improvements to support population growth. The Northern Beaches’ population is expected to reach 288,000 by 2036, creating demand for around 12,000 new homes and added pressure on transport and public services.

The council continues to seek a balance between growth and maintaining liveability within established suburbs.

Read: Measles Alert Issued for Northern Beaches After Confirmed Case Visits Dee Why and Manly

Next Steps for Planning in Dee Why

Northern Beaches Council is preparing to release its amended Development Control Plans for public consultation. These plans will help guide future development applications under the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, shaping how new housing projects in Dee Why and other centres proceed in coming years.

Published 1-Nov-2025

$10.7m Refurbishment Approved for Dee Why RSL Club

Photo Credit: DA2025/0139

Dee Why RSL Club has received planning approval for a $10.7 million refurbishment to expand dining and gaming facilities in Dee Why.

Read: Dee Why RSL Club Plans $10.7-Million Upgrade

Background on Previous Works

Dee Why RSL Club previously completed a major $100 million redevelopment in 2021, which delivered a six-level car park, new entertainment areas, multiple eateries, and a redesigned foyer and sports bar. Four years on, the club has sought further upgrades to meet continued growth in demand from members and guests.

Dee Why RSL Club
Photo Credit: DA2025/0139

New Dining, Gaming, and Layout Enhancements

The approved $10.7 million development will add a 140-seat a la carte Asian-style restaurant and a relocated café. The bistro will also be expanded, and the existing outdoor area on level two will be enclosed to increase usable space. These changes will raise the club’s floor area from 15,208 to 15,827 square metres, with most additions located on level two.

Internally, the gaming area will be consolidated into a single space. While the area will expand in size, the number of machines will not increase. Machines will be spaced one metre apart in response to post-pandemic preferences for greater distance between users.

Additional works include building a new communications room and adjusting internal layout to enhance functionality.

External Upgrades and Access Improvements

A key element of the plan is the relocation of the main entrance on Pittwater Road to a more central position, nearer a public bus stop. External upgrades will feature a new façade using curved aluminium panels, stone detailing, screening, and wall cladding, designed to create a visual landmark at the northern end of Dee Why Town Centre. Other outdoor works include new stairs, ramps, a roof structure, skylight, and landscaping.

Dee Why upgrade
Photo Credit: DA2025/0139

Focus Shift and Community Intent

The club confirmed that a previously considered childcare centre is no longer part of its development strategy. Instead, it has focused solely on enhancing the club’s core offerings. The stated aim of the project is to address growing usage demands and improve service capacity for its 77,000 members and the broader community.

Next Steps

Read: Dee Why Reef Sees Crayweed Return After 40-Year Absence

With planning consent granted, the project will proceed to construction. Club documents state that the refurbishment is expected to create additional job opportunities and enhance operations. The upgrades are intended to meet growing usage demands and maintain the venue’s role as a local meeting place in Dee Why.

Published 22-July-2025