New parklet rules take effect across Waverley after council vote

Waverley Council has adopted a new Parklet Policy, giving cafés, traders and other applicants a clear framework for using kerbside space in Bondi Junction and elsewhere in the area. The policy sets the rules for parklets that can change how footpaths, dining areas, parking and pedestrian movement share the street edge.

The policy was adopted unanimously, with Cr Stephenson moving the motion and Cr Nemesh seconding it. Council adopted the Parklet Policy as part of a broader planning agenda, but the parklet item stood on its own as a separate decision.

The change matters for local businesses because parklets sit at the point where public space and commercial frontage meet. For pedestrians and drivers, the policy sets how that space can be used and managed.

No members of the public addressed council before the vote. Cr Lewis later declared a less than significant non-pecuniary interest in a separate traffic item because he owns properties on the corner of Wairoa Avenue and Wallis Parade.

The same meeting also approved a separate planning agreement for 96-104 Ebley Street, Bondi Junction, with a total monetary contribution of $119,600 to be allocated to the Waverley Bike Strategy and the draft Waverley Walking Strategy. Council also approved the design for the Victoria Park Playground Upgrade, endorsed the Bondi Park Basketball Half Court Concept Design Option 1, and approved refined intersection improvements at Blair Street and Wairoa Avenue in North Bondi.

For parklet applicants, the new policy is now the reference point for proposals and approvals. For traders and residents, it sets a formal basis for how streetscape space is shared in Waverley.

Council will now prepare implementation from adoption onward.