Sylvania Waters is set for a significant transformation with the announcement of a $45 million marina redevelopment that will add restaurants, retail spaces, and improved boating facilities to the Georges River waterfront.

The project, approved by Sutherland Shire Council last week, will redevelop the existing marina site over three years, creating what developers describe as a “waterfront destination for all of Sydney’s south.”

“Sylvania Waters has incredible potential that’s never been fully realised,” said developer spokesperson James Morrison. “This project will create a genuine reason for people to come here—not just to use their boats, but to eat, shop, and spend time by the water.”

Development Details

The approved plans include:

Marine Facilities

• 200-berth marina (up from current 120 berths)
• Fuel dock with modern facilities
• Boat maintenance and wash-down areas
• Kayak and paddleboard storage and launch
• Visitor berths for day-trippers and tourists

Retail and Dining

• Five waterfront restaurant and cafe spaces
• Fresh seafood market and fishmonger
• Marine supplies and chandlery
• General retail spaces for lifestyle businesses
• Public amenities including restrooms and showers

Public Spaces

• Continuous waterfront promenade open to all
• Picnic areas with harbour views
• Children’s playground
• Public art installations
• Event space for community gatherings

Transport and Access

• 350-space car park with improved access
• Bus stop improvements on Belgrave Esplanade
• Bicycle parking and path connections
• Water taxi berthing facilities

Community Consultation

The project underwent 18 months of community consultation, during which significant modifications were made to address resident concerns:

• Building heights reduced from seven storeys to four
• Setbacks increased to preserve water views
• Public access requirements strengthened
• Affordable berthing allocation for local boat owners

“We listened to what the community wanted,” said Morrison. “People were worried we’d build a wall of apartments blocking the water. That’s not what this is. The focus is on public enjoyment of the waterfront.”

Environmental Considerations

The development incorporates several environmental features:

• Stormwater treatment before discharge to Georges River
• Native plantings along waterfront edges
• Fish habitat structures around marina pylons
• Electric vehicle charging stations
• Solar panels on building rooftops

The project received approval from the NSW Environment Protection Authority following environmental impact assessment.

Economic Benefits

Council estimates the completed development will generate:

• 180 permanent jobs in retail and hospitality
• 400 construction jobs during the build phase
• Increased visitation from surrounding areas
• Flow-on benefits to nearby businesses

The marina currently attracts approximately 50,000 visitors annually. Developers project this will increase to 250,000 within five years of completion.

The development team has engaged a firm providing AI strategy support to develop smart marina management systems, including automated berth allocation, predictive maintenance, and visitor analytics.

Construction Timeline

Work is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with stages completed as follows:

• Stage 1 (2026): Marina expansion and boat facilities
• Stage 2 (2027): Retail and dining precinct
• Stage 3 (2028): Public spaces and final landscaping

The existing marina will remain operational throughout construction, though some berth relocations will be necessary during specific phases.

Residents with questions can attend project information sessions scheduled for August and September, with dates published on the council website.