Safety concerns are growing around the new Forest High School in Allambie Heights, with community calls for pedestrian bridges and safer traffic management as the campus nears completion.
Background On The New School
The Forest High School is being relocated from Frenchs Forest to Allambie Heights. Construction is due to finish before the end of 2025, with students expected to move in at the start of Term 1, 2026. The new site is located at the intersection of Allambie Road and Aquatic Drive, close to Warringah Road, and will cater for about 1500 students.
Traffic Management Changes
Initial plans to replace the existing roundabout at Allambie Road and Aquatic Drive with traffic lights have been withdrawn. The revised approach will retain an upgraded roundabout, which authorities say can be delivered more quickly and will accommodate future increases in traffic volumes.
The decision was made after assessments indicated that constructing the roundabout upgrade would allow work to continue while the current intersection remained in use, avoiding delays that traffic lights would cause to the school’s opening schedule.
Pedestrian Safety Concerns
Community members have raised concerns about student safety when crossing nearby major roads. Proposals for pedestrian bridges over Warringah Road and Aquatic Drive have been suggested but were not included in the project scope.
The Education Department has stated that it does not hold concerns about safety and confirmed it has worked with local transport organisations to implement traffic and pedestrian measures at the site.
Community Response In Allambie Heights
Residents have expressed unease about future congestion, noting that peak-hour traffic at the junction is already heavy. Many support the installation of pedestrian overpasses, while others suggest lowering speed limits or adding further pedestrian crossings along Allambie Road.
Concerns have also been raised about access for nearby streets once the school and additional developments are operational. Several locals pointed out that pedestrian bridges are already common near other Sydney high schools, questioning why they have not been considered here.
The opening of a Bunnings Warehouse with 400 parking spaces on Allambie Road in 2026, located about 250 metres from the school, has added to concerns that the area will face even greater congestion and safety challenges.
Next Steps
The Education Department has confirmed it is working with the school’s leadership team to finalise operational arrangements for staff and students ahead of the 2026 opening. Community calls for further safety measures, particularly pedestrian bridges, continue as construction moves towards completion.
Published 23-Sep-2025
