A proposal to expand Woolwich Marina in Hunters Hill has been refused after authorities found the development would result in unacceptable visual and heritage impacts on surrounding foreshore areas.
Planning History And Site Background
The Woolwich Marina proposal involved alterations and additions at 2C Margaret Street, Woolwich, with the aim of increasing berthing capacity from 45 to 79 vessels. The development application was refused by the Sydney North Planning Panel in February 2024.
Following that decision, the applicant appealed to the NSW Land and Environment Court, triggering extended legal proceedings involving local objectors.
Kelly’s Bush Park, immediately north of the marina site, is listed on the State Heritage Register and is recognised as the site of Australia’s first Green Ban in 1971.
Court Ruling And Findings
On 19 December 2025, the Land and Environment Court dismissed the appeal, confirming that development consent could not be granted. The ruling found the proposal would significantly diminish views from publicly accessible foreshore locations.
The authorities determined that these visual impacts were closely linked to heritage impacts, particularly affecting views from Kelly’s Bush Park and towards nearby harbour islands.
Amended Proposal Assessment
During the appeal, amended plans were submitted that reduced the marina footprint, altered the layout, limited vessel lengths to 25 metres and introduced additional public facilities.
The amended proposal was placed on public exhibition in mid-2025, with submissions closing on 27 June 2025. Further heritage-related documentation was submitted in July 2025. The authorities found the changes did not adequately address the identified impacts.
Community Response
Community groups welcomed the decision but have expressed concern that further development proposals could be pursued in the future. The legal process has also placed financial strain on those involved in opposing the application.
Outlook
The refusal confirms that the existing Woolwich Marina approval remains unchanged. Any future proposal would require a new assessment process.
The decision represents a definitive outcome for the current application in Hunters Hill, with visual and heritage considerations remaining central to future planning outcomes.
Published 13-Jan-2026
