First up will be the removal of many over-mature macrocarpa and pine trees, which is expected to take about a week, and the demolition of the old brick toilets. Then construction will begin on the new changing pavilion, which is estimated to take about four months to complete. The existing changing sheds in the dunes will be available to the public until the new one is ready, then they will be removed. A new access pathway, new car park area and some associated landscape work will follow.

Local residents were asked to share their ideas on how Broad Park could be improved. “The concept plan takes into account public submissions and input at a design workshop in March,” says Chris Fourie, the Parks and Waterways Area Advocate.

Tree work is seen as the top priority, due to the age and deteriorating condition of many of the older trees. The younger macrocarpas planted in the dunes will be retained in the meantime, but may be replaced with lower-growing indigenous coastal species in future. Fourie says this would depend on the outcome of a review in five years time that will again involve consultation with local residents.