Council's $2.6m clinches beach reserve

For years, a little brick-and-tile home at No 9 Manly Esplanade has stood in the way of a beach-wide reserve at Browns Bay.

But the North Shore suburb will now get its reserve all the way along the beach.

The 1950s house, situated right in the middle of the Esplanade Reserve, forced people to walk behind it - on the road - or in front on the beach to get from one end to the other.

But next year the little home and a cream cottage that is also on the property will be removed.

After 15 years, the property owners have decided to sell the 1169sq m site to the North Shore City Council - for $2.6 million.

Council city parks manager Andrew Rutledge said the property had been highly sought after for many years because it was the only thing dividing the reserve along the beachfront.

"In terms of open space values, when you have a park that is effectively sliced in half, the park doesn't work too well."

Margaret Miles, chairwoman of the council's community services and parks committee, said it was "fantastic" to finally have the land and connect the entire reserve from one end to the other.

"It's the final piece, really. It means the whole beachfront will be available for the public."

Ms Miles said the council would investigate options for removing the homes, which are not protected by heritage status, in the new year. It is not yet known if they will be pulled down or moved.

Browns Bay residents the Herald spoke to yesterday said they were glad the reserve would be connected all the way along the beach.

Pauline Hunt said it was difficult walking a stroller along the reserve because the house got in the way.

Chris Thrupp said he was glad to see the land put to good use for the public, rather than being built on by developers.

"I suppose the house looks out of place sitting there. It's probably better [the land] is turning into a reserve than an apartment building."

Rothesay Bay resident Peter Wilson said he applauded the council for securing open space for the public.

The council has been acquiring property for reserves for a number of years so land will be available for future generations.

Mr Rutledge said coastal land was a priority "because it's seen as one of the main attractions on the North Shore".