Manly Sea Life aquarium: Work set to begin to transform abandoned Harbour tourist site

Six years ago the once popular Manly Sea Life Aquarium closed and became a dilapidated eyesore. Now its NSW Government owners are starting work to transform it into public space.

Work to get rid of the abandoned and dilapidated former Manly aquarium tourist attraction, and transform the site into waterfront public space, has started.

The state government department, which owns the site, wants to bulldoze the old Sea Life aquarium in Manly Cove, which closed down close to six years ago.

Wit the building demolished, Transport for NSW has plans to expand the existing promenade at the end of the West Esplanade and open it up for outdoor dining, seating and recreation uses.

An artist's impression of the public space created after the former Sea Life Aquarium building is demolished. Picture: NSW Government

TfNSW said that removing the aquarium building would also “reconnect” the historic Swimmers Pavilion and other heritage buildings with the beach.

The Liberal State MP for Manly, James Griffin, confirmed that preliminary work, which includes site investigations in the water, around the existing boardwalk and within the old aquarium building, were set to begin on Thursday.

Before: An aerial view of the former Sea Life Aquarium building at Manly Cove. Picture: NSW Government

After: An artist's impression of the public space to be created when the aquarium is demolished. Picture: NSW Government

News of the new work comes just weeks after the Manly Daily reported that TfNSW was paying for private security guards to combat vandals and trespassers damaging the structure.

It has become a target for vandals and so-called “urban explorers” releasing videos, from inside the building, on Tik Tok.

Worried locals had also been complaining to Mr Griffin, about anti-social behaviour and the dangers faced by people seen climbing onto its roof for late night drinks’ parties.

Transport for NSW hired private security guards to protect the abandoned former Sea Life Aquarium site. Picture: Jim O'Rourke

Earlier this month the MP called on TfNSW to provide information on work to redevelop the site would begin.

Mr Griffin said that from Monday, five days of “concrete core drilling” would begin.

“Sea level and coastal studies will also be undertaken to understand the impacts on the Manly West Esplanade beach following the planned demolition of the former Sea Life building,” he said.

The concrete core drilling will be noisy at times but where possible, measures will be implemented to reduce the noise and dust associated with the work. No work will be conducted on the weekends or public holidays.

The boarded-up and graffiti damaged former Sea Life Aquarium building in Manly Cove, Manly, on Thursday. Picture: Jim O'Rourke

Mr Griffin said temporary fencing, with shade cloth mesh, will go up around the site.

“When the project is fully completed, the site will create a new public space for both locals and visitors to enjoy.

“I have long advocated for this project. I am excited about the investigative work beginning and look forward to the ultimate redevelopment of Manly Cove West,” Mr Griffin said.

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