A multi-million dollar seawall restoration project is on the horizon for Warrawong Parklands. Photo: NSW Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
The solution for erosion around Lake Illawarra is still up for debate, but a $5 million fix for one section of the foreshore is on the cards.
The Minns Labor Government announced it would spend $5 million to restore a seawall at Warrawong Parklands on Lake Illawarra that has been impacted by coastal erosion and improve landscaping in the area as part of the 2025-26 NSW Budget.
Pedestrian access to the waterfront has been restricted due to erosion undermining the seawall that runs along the promenade, despite its popularity as a public recreation area.
Barrier fencing was installed on sections of the foreshore after an engineering assessment found major repairs were needed to the seawall.
Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said the improvements would also help to protect land from encroachment by the lake.
“This investment to restore public access to the shoreline along the Warrawong Parklands will protect waterfront community land and support safe public access to the edge of the lake,” he said.
“Work will repair the seawall to prevent further erosion and also improve the surrounding land to create a more vibrant and accessible public space.
“Stabilising and revegetating the edge of the seawall now is a proactive step that will support the master plan by protecting a valued natural asset and improving recreational opportunities.”
The old seawall will be replaced with a new and more environmentally friendly seawall designed to support habitat for marine plants and fish.
The land next to the seawall will be landscaped with native plants to create a natural environment and increase the appeal of the public recreation area.
The NSW Government is also developing a master plan for 32 hectares of public open space on the Lake Illawarra foreshore at Warrawong as part of the Parks for People program.
The master plan aims to transform the site into a major public space that offers commercial, recreational and tourism activities while preserving the environment and scenic natural beauty of the area.
A draft master plan will be released for public consultation later this year.
