Ivanhoe Park, Manly: Historic gardens set for major revamp

One of the first parks created on the northern beaches is set for a major makeover — and the public has been asked for ideas.

A map of the area included in the proposed Ivanhoe Park Masterplan and Plan of Management includes a wetland pond (K), circular boardwalk (J) and a sun lawn (O). Picture: Northern Beaches Council

A swath of rainforest, a wetland pond and a special lawn for visitors to catch some vitamin D from the sun are part of a proposed revamp of a historic northern beaches’ park.

Manly’s 150-year-old heritage-listed Ivanhoe Park — which includes Manly Oval — is earmarked for a bold upgrade.

A map of the area included in the proposed Ivanhoe Park Masterplan and Plan of Management. Picture: Northern Beaches Council

Now, a survey released by Northern Beaches Council, is asking the public to help it develop a Masterplan, a Plan of Management and a Conservation Management Plan for the whole of Ivanhoe Park.

The 4.58ha reserve is made up of Manly Oval, a set of tennis courts and bowling greens as well as the Ivanhoe Park Botanic Gardens, further up the hill.

As well as the gardens, the council wants to know if the sporting facilities need improving.

“We want to hear from the community about your relationship with Ivanhoe Park,” the council said on its website. “This includes how you use Ivanhoe Park, what you like about it and suggestions for improvements.”

Entrances to Ivanhoe Park and its pathways would be upgraded and made safer. Picture: Supplied

In August 2017, the council adopted a Masterplan for the Botanic Gardens, which focused on improving recreational opportunities as well as addressing pedestrian safety and access.

It included the protection of heritage items elements such as the Ossie Merrett Memorial Gate at the oval, the old Manly tram line alignment and the ANZAC Memorial.

The plan also suggested six new spaces in the botanic gardens including a tree canopy garden, a rainforest garden and a central lawn with a nearby wetland pond with a circular boardwalk.

Much of the 2017 plan is included in the new proposals.

The botanic park section of Ivanhoe Park would be improved. Picture: Manly Daily

Council chief executive officer Ray Brownlee said the proposed new plans would “develop a ‘shared’ vision for the future conservation, development and management of this significant recreational open space, balancing the needs of the broader community and stakeholders”.

“Ivanhoe Park is a significant heritage site with a rich cultural landscape and sporting history. It is also an important open space for the people of Manly and surrounding districts,” he said.

A map of the area included in the proposed Ivanhoe Park Masterplan and Plan of Management shows the rainforest garden (9). Picture: Northern Beaches Council

A preschool in the park would be also relocated and replaced, possibly by a cafe and a building for community use. The existing Scout Hall would be renovated.

The council decided to prepare the new Masterplan and the plans of management after Ivanhoe Park was listed on the State Heritage Register in August 2019.

The Ivanhoe Park Masterplan and Plan of Management Working Group has been created. It had its first meeting in November.

To complete the survey, which closes this Sunday go to https://ivanhoeparkmpandpom.questionpro.com.au/