Narrabeen will see major facility upgrades, with a $6.7 million rebuild of the Sydney Academy of Sport athletics track and a new performing arts hall at Narrabeen Sports High School.
Athletics Track Closure and Impact
The Sydney Academy of Sport athletics track in Narrabeen has been closed since December 2023 after water seepage caused the synthetic surface to bubble and loosen, making it unsafe. Around 800 athletes, including those preparing for elite competitions, have had to travel to other venues such as the Central Coast to continue training. A temporary six-lane grass track was set up on the site’s football ovals but has not replaced the demand for a full facility.
Rebuild Details and Timeline
The athletics facility will be replaced at a cost of $6.7 million. The new track will meet World Athletics standards and feature a moisture-resistant surface, new asphalt sub-base, and upgraded drainage and stormwater systems. Designs are scheduled for completion by October 2025, with a builder to be appointed in November. Construction is planned to start in December 2025, and the track is expected to reopen between June and September 2026.
Local Effect
The closure has disrupted school carnivals, community events and athletics club activities, with some organisations reporting lower participation numbers. Despite the setback, temporary arrangements have kept some athletes training in Narrabeen until the new facility is complete.
Narrabeen Sports High School Upgrades
In addition to the athletics track project, Narrabeen Sports High School will gain a new performing arts hall. Designs released in September 2025 show a facility with tiered seating for about 400 people, a large stage, backstage band room, rehearsal areas, and a professional control room. Accessibility features include a lift and a covered foyer. Construction is set to begin in early 2026.
Other School Improvements
The performing arts hall follows earlier upgrades at the school, including refurbished science laboratories, chemical storerooms, and technical and applied studies classrooms. Further works underway include two acoustically treated music rooms and a smaller performance space with a sprung wooden floor.
Looking Ahead
The athletics track rebuild is targeted for completion by September 2026, restoring a critical venue for elite and community sport on the northern beaches. The new performing arts hall at Narrabeen Sports High will begin construction in 2026, continuing staged improvements that aim to enhance student learning and creative opportunities.
Published 9-Sep-2025
