Demolition commences at former Manly Sea Life Sanctuary

The abandoned former Manly Sea Life Sanctuary on Sydney's Northern Beaches is finally being demolished after standing derelict for six years.

Considered an eye-sore on the Manly foreshore - posing an ongoing safety risk as a result of continued unauthorised access - Transport for NSW is expediting the removal of the building, with preparation works having began in early May, as water was removed from the old aquarium tanks.

The building on Manly Cove has been abandoned since 2018, but for more than 50 years before that, Manly Sea Life Sanctuary (previously known as Oceanworld Manly) was a major attraction and even doubled as a wedding venue.

Since closure, the derelict building attracted social media content creators, dubbed ‘urban explorers’, who filmed themselves exploring the abandoned marine life attraction.

Following demolition, which will be to promenade level only, the space will be opened for community use while planning for the site’s revitalisation is completed.

Transport for NSW has advised that the advantages of retaining the existing structure instead of removing it and building a new boardwalk include more available space for future use on the foreshore, reduced demolition time and a reduced environmental impact.

Future use may include public open space for community use, such as an open piazza or grassed area, commercial food and beverage opportunities and public space to encourage play such as fountains or seating.

Commenting on the demolition, NSW Transport Minister, Jo Haylen stated “it was my priority to get this building demolished as soon as possible. It’s an eyesore and its dangerous. I’m glad that work has now begun.

“As we revitalise this corner of the harbour, we’ll work with the community to determine how we can make the best use of this new foreshore space.”

For more information about the project, visit www.transport.nsw.gov.au/manlycovewest

Image: Manly Sea Life Sanctuary prior to its closure.