Stage Two of Emma McKeon Promenade extension at North Wollongong Beach to start late February

Seawall renewal moves into second construction stage

Construction is scheduled to begin in late February 2026 on the second stage of works to extend the Emma McKeon Promenade at North Wollongong Beach. The project forms part of the broader North Wollongong Beach Seawall Renewal program, focused on replacing ageing coastal protection infrastructure and improving access along a heavily used section of foreshore.

The next stage will replace the existing crib wall between the North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club and the North Beach Bathers Pavilion. The new wall is intended to align with the stepped seawall delivered in the first phase, continuing a consistent coastal edge and pedestrian connection along the promenade.

What will be built and how the foreshore will change

The stage two design includes tiered concrete seating steps and new stairways linking the promenade down to the sand. Plans also include an accessible beach ramp and a lower terraced area adjacent to the Bathers Pavilion, aimed at widening usability for people with mobility needs as well as families and older visitors.

While the project is framed as a coastal protection upgrade, it also functions as a public-domain redesign. By combining engineered shoreline works with stepped terraces and ramps, the project blends infrastructure and recreation in the same footprint.

• Replacement of the ageing crib wall between the surf club and Bathers Pavilion
• Continuation of the stepped seawall profile established in stage one
• Tiered terraces designed to operate as seating and circulation space
• An accessible ramp and lower terrace near the Bathers Pavilion

Procurement, timeline and likely local impacts

The contract for stage two was awarded in late December 2025 to The Civil Experts Pty Ltd after a procurement change late last year. In October 2025, councillors resolved to decline all submissions received through an open tender process and proceed to direct negotiations to reach an outcome considered to provide best value.

Works are expected to affect how the precinct operates during construction. The broader area remains a key access point for North Wollongong Beach, the Blue Mile and the nearby Continental Pool. Year-round lifeguard services are expected to continue, and pedestrian access along the Blue Mile is intended to remain available with altered conditions around the construction zone.

Stage two extends a shoreline protection program that has already delivered stepped access and promenade improvements, while shifting construction impacts onto one of the foreshore’s busiest commercial and pedestrian nodes.

Building maintenance and closures during the project

Alongside the seawall build, essential maintenance works are planned for the kiosk and pavilion buildings, including external repairs and drainage improvements. The pavilion is expected to remain open with modified access arrangements, while the café and kiosk are set to close for the duration of the seawall project. Funding for works to the heritage buildings is being provided jointly by the NSW Government and Wollongong City Council.

Stage one of the seawall and promenade works opened just before Christmas 2023, following delays linked to adverse weather, sea conditions, supply issues and labour constraints. Stage two is the next step in extending protection and access further along the foreshore in 2026.