More than 180 people have helped shape what could be the next big chapter for Governor Phillip Park, with locals split between keeping the Palm Beach reserve “as it is” and adding new facilities, events and a dog off-leash trial.
Governor Phillip Park sits between Barrenjoey Head and Beach Road in Palm Beach, bordered by the ocean and Pittwater, and is one of the area’s most visited open spaces for picnics, sport and beach access.
In January 2026, Northern Beaches Council confirmed it has prepared a draft Plan of Management for Governor Phillip Park and sent it to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for review and endorsement so it can be placed on public exhibition.
Why a new plan is being written
Council says the updated Plan of Management will guide how the whole park is used and cared for now and into the future, including whether it should include a dog off-leash area trial.
The work follows a Council decision that supported preparing draft plans linked to potential dog off-leash trials at Palm Beach (north) and Mona Vale Beach (south).
From 29 April to 2 June 2024, residents and visitors shared ideas through an online ideas board and a survey. Council says responses ranged from protecting the park’s natural feel to supporting more services and activity.
Key themes included:
Keeping the park’s character
Many people value Governor Phillip Park for being open, natural and not overly built up, with its beaches, views, recreation areas and links to Palm Beach and Pittwater.
Parking and traffic pressure
Locals raised concerns about congestion, road safety, pedestrian access and parking behaviour, especially during busy periods.
A debate over “activation”
Some supported more community events such as markets, arts and music, while others worried about disruptions from bigger activities, including filming.
Fix what’s already there
Feedback called for improvements to existing facilities and maintenance, but there were also opposing views warning against adding too much new infrastructure.
Dogs remain a dividing issue
Council’s proposed dog off-leash area trial at Palm Beach (north) has drawn both support and strong concern, highlighting tensions between dog exercise needs and shared use of a sensitive coastal space.
Protecting the environment
Many comments focused on keeping natural areas healthy, managing erosion, and reducing impacts on habitats and seagrass.
What happens next
In January 2026, Northern Beaches Council completed a draft Plan of Management for Governor Phillip Park and shared it with the NSW planning department before it goes out for public feedback.
For locals, that future exhibition will be a key moment to weigh in again—especially on the big questions: how much change is too much, and how to keep Governor Phillip Park welcoming for everyone who uses it.
Published 15-Jan-2026
