In October 2024, almost 12 years after Manly Council’s controversial acquisition of 40 Stuart Street, the demolition and return of this property to open space has finally been realized. The journey began on 11 October 2012, when the Council purchased the beachside house at Little Manly for $4.225 million, following a long-running debate over the merit of the acquisition. The Council’s decision was met with mixed reactions, but its vision to provide more public access to Little Manly Reserve has now come to fruition.

The demolition of the house at 40 Stuart Street marks a significant milestone for local residents, with 370 square meters being returned to the community as part of the Little Manly Beach Reserve. This effort aligns with the community’s goal for Council to enhance public spaces and preserve the natural beauty of the area.

However, this transformation has not come without controversy and challenges. The purchase of 40 Stuart Street was heavily criticised at the time due to its financial implications. In 2013, it was revealed that the acquisition had placed a significant financial burden on ratepayers, with the Council needing to allocate half a million dollars annually for the next decade to cover the cost. To alleviate this strain, the Council explored the sale of nearby properties, 34 and 36 Stuart Street which were deemed to be attractive to the market. The Mayor at the time felt the need to manage the financial burden and maintain a balance between public access and heritage preservation. The proposal was defeated through community pressure and the properties remain in public ownership.

34 Stuart Street, a heritage-listed property known for its Federation Queen Anne style architecture, remains protected, and 36 Stuart Street which was purchased by the Council in 1998 was demolished in 2014 to extend the dinghy and boat storage area.

The history of the Stuart Street properties is deeply intertwined with the development of Little Manly Beach. From the creation of the public reserve in the 1940s to zoning changes in the 1980s and 2000s. The return of 40 Stuart Street to open space is the latest chapter in this evolving story, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty of Little Manly Beach Reserve.

As we reflect on this decades-long journey, the restoration of open space at Little Manly serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving public land for the benefit of the community. We thank those who persisted in ensuring the Council’s commitment to this vision which has transformed an oft debated acquisition into a win for local residents and visitors alike.

We now await the outcome of the EOIs for the final piece of the Plan at 34 Stuart St.