New pocket park brings a sense a peace to busy Dee Why corner

Dee Why is about to get another beautiful space to sit and contemplate as work starts on a total refurbishment of St David Ave Park on the corner of Pittwater Road.

The small but busy corner features the northbound B-Line bus stop, is opposite the new and popular Dee Why Town Centre public square and the Dee Why Library, and adjacent to Dee Why Police Station.

Fifteen trees will be planted in the space, including an advanced, 4 metre Angophora Costata tree that replaces the London Plane tree that had to be removed recently after it succumbed to a sudden and fast-moving fungal attack. The Angophora will provide structure and symmetry to the park and will grow to about 20 metres over the coming 20 or so years.

Four more species of trees will be planted through the park including Old Man Banksia, Eumundi, Golden Penda and Lilly-pilly.

The garden beds will be filled with almost 1500 beautiful native and introduced shrubs and ground covers that will complement the plants in the gardens across the road in the Town Centre.

135 square metres of timber decking and 315 square metres of paving will be offset by 35 metres of sandstone walls and steps, and an additional 25 metres of grandstand style seating at the rear of the bus stop – giving the community plenty of room to sit and enjoy the view.

The circular seating around the new central Angophora tree will provide a shady spot to read a book from the nearby library while you wait for the bus.

The park will be lit for safety and accessibility from dusk to dawn and includes recessed wall lights, up lighting of the central tree, and directional floodlighting.

Plans for a significant public art piece will be unveiled soon, with installation expected in spring 2021.

A drinking fountain will be installed and accessible toilets under the adjacent Carlyle Building will be open from 6am to 9pm. The toilets and timber deck will be accessible via a ramp.

During construction, the toilets are closed. Alternative public amenities are available at Walter Gors Park.

Work is expected to be complete in July, weather permitting.