Residents near Bradfield Park South, a foreshore stretch beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge, say their once unobstructed views of the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay have been replaced by construction fencing, churned soil and ongoing construction.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, a Transport for NSW compound has been established on part of the park as a temporary worksite to support maintenance of the Harbour Bridge. It is expected to be operational until at least 2028.
Locals say the disruption has grown increasingly frustrating, with some reporting environmental impacts from the site. Nicholas and Barbara Kougellis, who live opposite the park, say dust and loose soil regularly blow into their home.
“On windy days we have to close all our doors and windows to stop all the sand and soot coming inside and coating all our furniture. It’s constant,” Nicholas said.
Barbara emphasised that the continued use of the site has deprived the community of green space.
“They said the compound would be gone years ago, but it’s been extension after extension,” she said. “In the meantime, the community has lost the park we rely on.”
“When you see the busloads of tourists coming to take in the phenomenal views, you almost feel ashamed to see the condition of the park they’re standing on,” Nicholas said. “You wouldn’t expect this under the Eiffel Tower, or in any other global city.”
Community groups have called for Premier Chris Minns to provide a clear timeline and urged a removal of the compound.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald
