Pittwater Rugby Park in Warrierwood has set to construct new female-friendly and accessible change facilities aimed at promoting inclusivity and supporting increased female participation in sports.
Background and Context
Pittwater Rugby Park in Warriewood, a well-known community hub and home to the Warringah Rugby Club (The Rats), will soon see the addition of new female-friendly change rooms. This development follows the NBC’s 2020 resolution to enhance inclusivity by providing modern, accessible change facilities to support women’s sports.
The project aims to supplement the existing two change rooms with updated facilities designed according to best practice guidelines from Rugby AU and the NSW Office of Sport. These upgrades will support a range of events held at the park, including women’s rugby sevens competitions, the Shute Shield, and the Jack Scott Cup.
NBC’s Commitment to Inclusivity
The NBC finalised the detailed design in late 2024 after incorporating cost-saving measures suggested by a pre-tender cost estimate report. At a meeting on 18 March 2025, the tender for the construction was awarded to JXB Projects Pty Limited for $1,349,328 (excluding GST).
The new building will feature lockable shower and toilet cubicles to ensure privacy and dignified inclusion. The facilities will also include accessible toilets and showers to accommodate diverse users. In light of the floodplain location, the building will be elevated, featuring natural ventilation and energy-efficient design to reduce environmental impact.
Community Support and Funding
The project received strong community backing, with a public consultation held from 25 October to 21 November 2023, resulting in 150 responses—97% in support and 3% advocating for minor changes. No objections were raised. The NBC engaged closely with stakeholders, including the Warringah Rugby Club, throughout the planning process.
The initiative is funded through the Female Friendly Community Sport Facilities and Lighting Upgrades Grant Program, with $500,000 contributed by the NSW Government. The project also aligns with broader NBC efforts to upgrade local sports facilities, including improvements at Frank Gray Oval and lighting enhancements at Abbott Road Softball Grounds.
Construction Timeline and Accessibility
Construction is set to commence in April 2025, with the park remaining accessible to local sporting groups and other users throughout the building phase. Once completed, the new facilities will enhance the experience for female athletes, fostering greater inclusion and participation.
Next Steps
NBC anticipates that the new change rooms will be ready for use before mid-2025, offering improved amenities for local sporting events. The modernised facilities will allow male and female teams to compete on the same day, addressing longstanding accessibility issues.
For more information, the public can visit the NBC’s project webpage or subscribe for updates.
Published 5-Apr-2025
