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A multi-million dollar rebuild of Manly Bowling Club has been proposed as a sports centre and community hub for Manly.
The proposal was brought to the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board’s September 26 business meeting, as a first step in progressing it.
The plans include rebuilding the existing single storey Manly Bowling Club facility and adding a second level, remaining within the existing footprint. It would include space for Manly Sailing Club to store boats, a covered bowls green and restaurant as well as meeting spaces.
There have been early discussions with the sailing club, and adjacent tennis club.
In his presentation, bowling club general manager/secretary Andy Dorrance estimated the cost of the project as “in the ballpark of $8m-$10m”.
He later told the paper that the club began the project to provide a venue for the community, for the sailing club to hold prizegivings for its big sailing competitions, and encourage sporting activity.
“It’s the early stages of a five to seven year plan,” Dorrance says. “We have a very under-utilised facility there, in a great location by the park and near the beach. The club has a 30-year lease and here is a chance to build something for the future that serves a growing community.”
He says, like the current Ōrewa Surf Lifesaving community hub development, it will require a major fundraising effort.
The proposal received a positive response from local board members.
