Dee Why RSL Club: Plans revealed for $10.7m refurbishment

Growing popularity is behind a $10.7m proposal to refurbish one of the biggest registered clubs on the northern beaches.

One of the northern beaches’ most popular clubs is planning a major $10m facelift to cope with its growing popularity.

It comes just four years after Dee Why RSL Club completed a mammoth $100m refurbishment.

Now the 88-year-old club wants to increase its floor space and boost dining options for its 77,000 members — and guests — by adding a 140-seat a la carte Asian style restaurant.

It also wants to modify the club’s existing gaming area by increasing the space between poker machines and give the outside of the building a new look.

An artist's impression of the proposed new Pittwater Rd entrance to Dee Why RSL Club. Picture: Atlis Architecture

“The club is currently experiencing extensive demand which it cannot meet with the existing premises,” according to planning documents before Northern Beaches Council.

“This development will meet customer demand with a minor, and complying, increase in floor space, whilst ensuring that the everyday operations remain.

An artist's impression of the proposed new facade for Dee Why RSL Club. Picture: Atlis Architecture

“The proposed upgrades seek to … better cater to its 77,000 members and the public.

“(It) will provide more jobs and improve a local club that is a common meeting location for local residents.”

Plans also include the reconfiguration of the gaming room, moving a cafe, increasing the size of the bistro and enclosing what is now an outdoor area on level 2.

While the pokies’ area would increase in size, the club made it clear that it was not increasing the number of poker machines.

“Since the Covid-19 pandemic, members and guests have voiced a strong preference for social spacing between gaming machines,” according to a plan of management.

An artist's impression of part of the proposed facelift of Dee Why RSL Club. Picture: Atlis Architecture

“This DA is a direct response to this feedback and will facilitate additional space between machines.”

Documents also reveal a proposal to relocate the club entry on Pittwater Rd to a more central location, closer to a bus stop.

The outside upgrades to the facade include decorative screening and wall cladding.

“The intention of the facade is to provide an architectural statement, not only to the club, but also to signify the arrival at the northern end of Dee Why Town Centre,” according to a statement of environmental effects.

Dee Why RSL Club underwent a $100m refurbishment, completed in 2021. Picture: Facebook/Dee Why RSL

“The facade comprises multiple aluminium panels with stone detailing set in a metal frame and is curved to soften the buildings appearance and reduce the bulk and scale.”

In 2021, the club completed a $100m refurbishment, which included include a six-level carpark, multiple eateries, entertainment areas, a new sports bar as well as a new entrance and foyer.