Construction of the new pedestrian and cycle bridge over Manly Lagoon at Queenscliff is now complete.
Designed with everyone in mind, the generous 4-metre-wide bridge resolves a choke point along the busy shared-user path, linking Aitken Avenue and Hinkler Park.
With peaceful lagoon views along the way, the bridge provides a far safer and far more scenic alternative to the narrow footpath on the busy Pittwater Road.
Built to stand the test of time, the bridge deck sits 3 metres above the waterway, meaning it will stay safely accessible even during major flood events that typically occur only once every 100 years.
The bridge has already won a very special fan - local 6 year old Fletcher, who has been so fascinated by the construction that he couldn’t wait to be the very first to walk across — proudly alongside the Mayor.
“I’m very, very, very excited about the bridge opening. It will make it easy to get to nippers.
“When I grow up I want to be a builder,” Fletcher said.
The new bridge design ensures ample space that can comfortably accommodates people of all ages and abilities.
The bridge will resolve a long-standing chokepoint in the regional active transport link between Warringah Mall and Manly, providing safer journeys for people walking and bike riding.
Mayor Sue Heins said it was exciting to see this sustainable transport investment finalised.
“This is a major milestone for a project that the community has strongly supported from the very beginning.
“The bridge will provide a safer, more accessible route for people walking and bike riding between Aitken Avenue and Hinkler Park, to our wider active transport network.
“Together, the bridge and new crossing will offer a much safer alternative to the narrow footpath on the existing road bridge on Pittwater Road, improving connectivity for locals heading to shops, schools, playgrounds and recreational facilities,” Mayor Heins said.
Minister for Transport John Graham said the investment would make it safer to walk and cycle around the area, delivering on the aims of the NSW Government’s Active Transport Strategy.
''Sydney is becoming a cycling city. You can see it in the number of people getting on a bike for everyday trips. But we need the infrastructure to match that shift.
Projects like this are about closing the gaps in the network so people feel safe and confident riding.
By fixing this chokepoint, we’re making it easier for more people to leave the car at home, save on costs and get around in a healthier, more sustainable way.'' the NSW Minister for Transport stated
Feedback was received from 190 community members resulting in the final design being refined, before construction commenced in November 2025.
The works have been made possible thanks to a $3.95 million grant from Transport for NSW’s Get NSW Active program, secured by Manly MP James Griffin prior to the 2023 State Election.
The project has progressed through several stages of community consultation since early 2022. Initial feedback showed overwhelming support, with 94% of 285 respondents favouring the bridge due to safety concerns about the existing narrow structure, according to council documentation.
A second round of consultation between November and December 2024 attracted responses from 190 people, with their feedback helping to refine the final design.
Early construction works included site establishment and the removal of Casuarina trees identified as being in poor condition. The council has committed to planting replacement species in consultation with Manly Lagoon Friends once construction is finished.
The project required a Review of Environmental Factors, completed in September 2025, which assessed potential impacts on the site. An independent ecologist provided advice regarding ecological considerations. The review concluded that with proposed mitigation measures, the works would not result in significant environmental impacts.
May 2026 - lowering the fabricated steel beam bridge into place.
“This project resolves a significant chokepoint in our local walking and cycling network," said Member for Manly James Griffin.
"Whether you’re riding to Manly Wharf as part of your daily commute or enjoying our beautiful coastline on the weekend, this investment will make a world of difference to the everyday needs of our local community.
"We know that the biggest barrier to people taking up cycling is concerns about riding on the road, so this project will encourage more people to leave the car at home and save on the household budget.”
For further information on this project visit Council’s Your Say page.
Photos: courtesy Northern Beaches Council/and Manly MP James Griffin
