Dolls Point wharf was closed to the public in 2009 after its structure was found to have significant concrete cancer and deterioration.

Bayside Council has endorsed a proposal to partially demolish the Dolls Point wharf.

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But not before the community outcry over its potential demolition prompted a debate at Bayside Council to save the wharf for future generations.

The wharf was closed to the public in 2009 after the structure was found to have significant concrete cancer and deterioration.

Before Bayside Council's April 22 meeting was a recommendation from the city works and assets committee to fully demolish the structure.

But Councillor Vicki Poulos asked the council to amend the committee's recommendation and not demolish the wharf.

She called for a detailed design and feasibility report to be prepared within six months outlining the options for the full restoration of the wharf.

This would include the replacement of the existing deck with suitable alternative materials.

Extending the wharf with a floating pontoon to improve public access to the water should also be looked at, along with other specifications to return the wharf to the community use for the next 40 to 50 years.

Deputy mayor Heidi Lee Douglas outlined the environmental benefits to marine life from the wharf's wood piers and asked whether they could be kept.

Councillor Michael Nagi said there was overwhelming support by residents to keep the structure.

"We have got to listen to the community," he said. "They want it there. They want it restored. I think we should listen to the community and deliver."

Cr Poulos said, "There's been an overwhelming response from the community in support of saving the wharf from demolition. There are ways we can mitigate the risks. I'm not saying keep it in its current state. There's quite a bit of work that needs to be done. I'm asking for a six-month report to look at something that will last for 50 years for visitors and families to come and enjoy the benefits of the wharf. Once something is gone, it's gone."

The council voted eight to seven against Cr Poulos' amendment calling for the restoration of the wharf.

Instead, the council voted for the partial demolition of the unsafe parts of the wharf while looking at saving the wooden piers if they can be kept.

Earlier:

The Dolls Point wharf would be demolished at a cost of $450,000, under a proposal to be considered by Bayside Council.

In 2009, concrete cancer was found on the base of the the wharf's concrete deck. Following this the wharf and access beneath it were closed to the public.

The council appointed a consultant who has confirmed that, "No remedial work can be carried out to stop and protect the corroded cables to lengthen the structural life of the concrete planks.

"The only option would be to demolish the planks and topping layer and replace with either a timber or dense concrete deck, supported on the existing headstocks and piles which are still in sound condition."

In November 2023, the council endorsed the proposal to partially demolish Dolls Point wharf subject to available funding.

Since then, the load-bearing members supporting the deck have further deteriorated. Demolition has been delayed due to ongoing negotiations with Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW), the landowner.

The council has three options:

• Demolition and total removal of whole structure to cost $450,000
• Partial demolition at $300,000.
• Renewal of the deck using existing piers and headstocks with an estimated cost of $650,000.

Based on the condition of the deteriorating wharf, and the ongoing cost to the council it is recommended the wharf be completely removed and the beach fully opened to the public.

When the wharf was installed in 1988, it was hoped it would form a link in a proposed ferry service around Botany Bay, connecting Kogarah Bay, Brighton, La Perouse and Kurnell.

"Unfortunately, this service never became a reality. The wharf was proposed to be used by the boating community as a safety mooring if vessels got into difficulties in this area of Botany Bay," according to the council's report.

"This use has not been realised due to strong currents in the area.

"There is also regular accumulation of sand in this area that at times prevents boats accessing the wharf.

The main uses for the wharf have been for people fishing, and for sightseers.

"The wharf does not afford any significant improvement to views across to Towra Point than other nearby vantage points, and there are alternative locations for recreational fishing nearby."

The recommendation will go to the next full council meeting for discussion.