A detailed report was presented to Council’s Community and Environment Committee Monday 12 November 2007, which resolved to exhibit the Gap Park Masterplan until Wednesday 19 December 2007. Following a review of comments received, a further report was prepared in March 2008 and the plan was adopted.

Gap Park is situated on the coastal escarpment at Watsons Bay, and is one of Sydney’s most visited locations. Renowned for its spectacular views, Gap Park is recognised as a popular destination for tourists and local residents. The park offers views from the coastal walkway along with interesting significant heritage items such as ship wreck relics, early fortifications and tram-line remnants, all contained in a superb natural environment. Unfortunately the location is also associated with self harm or suicide.

The impact of the high visitation numbers has seen the existing infrastructure decline since the last substantial landscape works were completed in 1982. View image 1 and image 2 of landscape works.

Landscape architects Thompson Berrill Landscape Design, was engaged to develop a Masterplan to guide future development of the Park and provide an enhanced recreational experience.

View the Masterplan for all of Gap Park.

View the photomontage of the new entrance staircase at The Gap

View details of proposed improvements at the Park’s two main entry points 

In developing this Plan extensive investigation and consultation has been undertaken including exploring opportunities to minimise acts of self-harm.

Council is seeking funding assistance from the State and Federal Government and other benefactors to implement the improvements identified in the Masterplan.

Senate Inquiry into Suicide in Australia

The Australian Commonwealth Government has recently announced a Senate Inquiry into Suicide in Australia. Suicide Prevention Australia (SPA) welcomes this unique opportunity to recognise and promote the diverse experiences and views of Australians to help strengthen our community's responses to suicide and self-harm prevention, intervention and postvention.

If you have any questions about SPA's Senate Inquiry submission, please contact Jo Riley, Senior Project Officer, on (02) 9568 3111 or email senateinquiry@suicidepreventionaust.org