Locals in Hunters Hill are standing together to protect Kellys Bush as plans to expand Woolwich Marina threaten one of Sydney’s most treasured public spaces.
Final Court Decision Pending
Plans to expand Woolwich Marina have faced strong opposition from Hunters Hill residents, who fear the $8.5 million project will damage a valued public foreshore. The dispute focuses on Kellys Bush, a site linked to the 1970s Green Bans movement. The NSW Land and Environment Court is reviewing the case after previous rejections by local planning bodies.
Developer Chan Hoi Li aims to increase berths from 45 to 79 for larger boats. Despite revised plans reducing vessel size and marina area, residents remain worried about safety, visual impact, and loss of access.
Community Groups Lead Opposition
Local groups such as Save Our Shores, the Hunters Hill Trust, and Friends of Kellys Bush have joined residents in opposing the marina expansion. They say it would turn a public foreshore into a commercial zone for wealthy yacht owners.
Campaigner Tim Ross warned it would narrow harbour access and disrupt recreation near the Hunters Hill Sailing Club. Community spokeswoman Beverley Bennett said residents crowd-funded the legal fight to defend public space. Parents like Jennifer Edwards argue the area should remain open to all Sydneysiders.
Council’s Costly Legal Battle
Hunters Hill Council has poured more than $378,000 into defending its rejection of the Woolwich Marina expansion. Officials say the fight is about more than money, calling it a stand for heritage and public access on Sydney Harbour.
Many residents back the council’s stance, describing it as a test of how far communities will go to protect shared spaces. The proposal also raised red flags over nearby heritage sites and the ecological importance of Kellys Bush.
Balancing Growth and Heritage
The Woolwich Marina dispute has become a test of how Sydney balances growth with cultural and environmental preservation. Supporters say the upgrade would meet rising demand for larger berths, but locals argue it threatens community identity and access.
Kellys Bush remains untouched as the court weighs the developer’s appeal. Its outcome could shape the future of similar projects across Sydney Harbour.
Published 6-October-2025