The future of Forestville RSL now depends on an upcoming members’ vote on a seniors housing redevelopment that has drawn strong interest as well as opposition within Forestville.
Background on the Development
The seniors housing project, named Garraway, received approval from the Sydney North Planning Panel in August 2025. The proposal covers a new club building and 52 independent living units, reduced from the original 55 units.
The plans involve two stages. Stage 1 includes a three-level basement, a ground-floor club, and two storeys of housing. Stage 2 includes demolishing the existing club, adding another basement level, and constructing 36 additional units across three buildings.
The approved height reaches 12.352 metres for the new club building and 9.5 metres for the housing structures, with both the Panel and Northern Beaches Council noting that the scale remained compatible with the surrounding low-density residential area.
Longstanding Community Interest in the Site
The bowling greens at Forestville RSL have previously been the focus of redevelopment proposals. In 2018, plans for a medical centre on the greens were withdrawn following a petition that collected 1,700 signatures.
The current proposal again places the two bowling greens at the centre of debate, as the new club building would be constructed on that space.
Understanding the Current Proposal
RSL management states the redevelopment is intended to address ageing facilities and future revenue pressures, including expected regulatory changes around gambling. They point to the need for long-term financial stability and say the new layout would include around 450 square metres of outdoor space, described as roughly half the size of a bowling green.
Management has also noted that expressions of interest for Garraway opened in September 2025, following what they described as a strong level of inquiry. Within 24 hours, 50 online EOIs were received on top of 25 existing registrations.
Concerns Raised by Members
Members who oppose the redevelopment say the two bowling greens provide a valued open area where families gather while children use the space. They also question whether the smaller overall footprint of the planned club will adequately support major events such as Anzac Day.
Opposing members additionally raise concerns about communication, saying information about the proposal was not delivered clearly or widely enough. They describe feeling discouraged from discussing the topic inside the club and claim they were never given a vote before the DA was submitted.
Another concern involves the proportion of gaming space in the new layout. While management maintains the gaming area remains the same size as the current one, members argue the overall reduction in the footprint results in gaming taking up a larger proportion of the club.
Perspectives on Design and Conditions
The DA approval included amendments, such as requiring separate entry bathrooms instead of the unisex layout in the original plans. Council and the Planning Panel found the design complied with privacy and acoustic requirements.
Management says the DA stage primarily determines feasibility and that further design adjustments may occur before construction proceeds.
Community Petition and Public Sentiment
A petition titled “Save Forestville RSL” has gathered 1,359 verified signatures, reflecting community concern about the loss of green space and the change to the club’s character. The petition argues the retirement village would occupy the entire site, reduce family-friendly areas, and increase the prominence of gaming space.
Recent supporters include local members and residents expressing concern about the redevelopment’s impact on families and the long-standing character of the RSL.
Alternatives Suggested by Members
Some members say they are not against redevelopment but believe the Garraway proposal is not the best option. They suggest potential alternatives such as enhancing dining and entertainment areas while retaining more open green space, similar to established venues in surrounding suburbs.
What Happens Next
For construction to begin, at least 50 per cent of voting members must support the redevelopment at a general meeting. The club must provide 21 days’ notice once the meeting date is confirmed. Management has stated the meeting will be scheduled outside the regulated Christmas school holiday period.
Until the vote takes place, the redevelopment cannot proceed, and the future of the Forestville RSL remains in the hands of its members.
Published 21-Nov-2025
