Cromer Park Field 1, a major venue for representative and community football on the Northern Beaches, has been identified for future female-friendly sporting facilities as part of a broader infrastructure investment program.
Northern Beaches Council confirmed the proposal in its adopted 2026–27 budget. The $598 million budget includes $130 million in capital investment, with $3 million allocated towards future projects covering wharf and town centre improvements and female-friendly sporting facilities at Cromer and Careel Bay Sportsground. A separate funding amount for Cromer was not specified.
Female-friendly design could reshape Cromer amenities
Located on South Creek Road, Cromer Park has two synthetic pitches and three grass fields. Field 1 includes the Lucas Neill Stand, a canteen and an amenities building, while The Far Post clubhouse is located on the eastern side of the ground.
Under NSW Government sporting infrastructure guidelines, female-friendly facilities can include private change rooms, showers, toilets and accessible amenities. Design considerations also extend to privacy, safety and facilities suitable for players, coaches, officials and families.
Council has yet to specify whether the Cromer project will involve a new amenities building, refurbishment of existing facilities or additional infrastructure.
Women’s football at the heart of Cromer Park
Cromer Park is the home ground of Manly United Football Club and a major venue for the Manly Warringah Football Association (MWFA). Manly United’s senior women’s team and youth development squads use the complex, while Field 1 hosts representative fixtures and community competitions.
The precinct hosted MWFA’s girls’ and women’s grand final day on 31 August 2025, with matches played across all five fields. Participating clubs included Cromer Collaroy Strikers, Wakehurst, Narrabeen, Dee Why, Brookvale and Pittwater, with competitions spanning junior girls, all-age women and older players.
Cromer Park Field 1 has also featured in initiatives encouraging younger girls into football. Ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, MWFA announced plans for an under-eight and under-11 girls’ tournament at Field 1, with development opportunities for young female coaches and referees.
Previous upgrades expanded Cromer’s playing capacity
The proposed facilities investment follows earlier improvements to the sporting complex. In 2018, a $1.45 million project delivered a synthetic playing surface on Field 2, providing additional capacity for local football competitions.
Published 14-Oct-2026
