Bondi Beach subject to new restrictions to handle summer crowds

Visitors to Bondi Beach will be affected by new rules to manage summertime crowds as authorities consider what are “safe limits”.

Bondi Beach will be slapped with new restrictions to handle an expected surge of summertime crowds.

Waverley Council announced its plan for managing the popular outdoor spaces under its command, including the beaches at Bondi, Bronte and Tamarama, and walks along the coastline that usually attract throngs of visitors on beautiful days.

Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos said in a press release: “Our plan involves managing access to the beaches if crowds begin to reach capacity and working with a range of agencies to encourage people to visit other public spaces or facilities as numbers approach safe limits.”

NSW authorities fear a surge of visitors to recreational spaces might lead to a resurgence of COVID-19 cases after the state has hit a promising stride in managing the coronavirus.

COVID-19 restrictions will prevent big crowds from flocking to Bondi Beach this summer. Picture: Jane Dempster/The Australian

The new plan outlines strategies to be used in case beaches reach capacity. Access points to beaches and walks will be blocked by barriers, and council staff will inform newcomers that the spaces are full. The council will also request that police attend to monitor the situation.

However, people who are already on the beach or walkway will be allowed to remain even if the space is nearing maximum capacity.

The plan will be subject to continuous review as public health advice and orders change over time.

Beaches will be patrolled between 6am and 7pm from this week until the end of May.