Waverley Council considers plan for private beach club on Bondi Beach

A proposal to rope off part of Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach to create a European-style beach club is currently being considered by Waverley Council.

Having rejected an initial proposal, submitted in May, Waverley Council has confirmed it is currently considering a new proposal from Amalfi Beach Club to cordon off a 320 metre² section - equating to approximately 2% of the total beach space - for 100 paying guests.

Patrons would be invited to enjoy a selection of gourmet foods and alcoholic beverages for a two-hour time slot from noon to 8pm Thursday to Sunday between February and May 2021, while reclining on a fleet of sun lounges or inside a cabana.

A spokesperson for Waverley Council advised that it is liaising with Amalfi Beach Club after assessing the new proposal, telling the ABC “our beaches and parks are public open spaces, for the enjoyment of everyone.”

An online petition in support for the concept, has attracted hundreds of signatures.

It states "Amalfi Beach Club is a commercial initiative to revive Bondi Beach, support local business and lift community morale following the COVID-19 crisis, which has decimated the local economy.

"This summer international travel will be limited. Those who may have sojourned to the usual European beach hotspots over our winter will spend the year in Australia supporting the local economy instead.

"Intrepid Sydney locals, however, need not fret, as we will bring 'Euro beach chic' to them.

"In addition to celebrating our wonderful Bondi Beach in a new, vibrant and sophisticated way, which will help build its international reputation in a post COVID-19 world, Amalfi Beach Club will be an important adjunct for local businesses to generate an income."

However, the proposal is likely to prove controversial with any plans for change impacting what is arguably Australia’s most famous stretch of beach generally being opposed by locals and lovers of the beach.

Images: Private beach clubs are popular in Europe, such as the Beau Rivage beach club in Nice, France (top) and Bondi Beach while closed earlier this year (below).