Work to transform the ugly stormwater pipe at Fairy Bower pool is still underway. The finished product will be a smooth area for people to relax by the pool and will be achieved by replacing the stormwater pipe with a new larger concrete box culvert.

The work will improve the flow of stormwater and remove rough, broken bits of pipe from the outside of the pool. While there won’t be steps down into the water, the new area should look similar to the bleachers opposite the Manly Surf Club.

The Council project plans to create a living seawall on the western side of the culvert by installing a variety of 3D tiles. The tiles mimic the different habitats found in intertidal zones, providing space, moisture, shade and tiny water pools. It’s an eco-friendly environment where species, such as seaweeds, oysters, limpets and marine snails, can visit or build a home. Without the tiles the seawall would likely remain an arid, hostile environment, supporting little life.

Work has been delayed due to COVID construction restrictions, bad weather and limited hours of access due to the tides. However, demolition work has now finished and concrete construction is underway. Council expects the work to be finished and the pool reopened by the end of November.