Brookvale Named in Council’s Push to Reinstate Alcohol-Free Zones

Brookvale will return to alcohol-free zone status after ongoing reports of street drinking and antisocial behaviour led Northern Beaches Council to prioritise new restrictions. The decision follows a peninsula-wide review, with support from police, rangers, and locals ahead of its proposed start in September 2025. Community feedback is open until Sunday, 27 April, through the council’s “Your Say” website or by written submission.



Community Impact and the Brookvale Decision

Brookvale’s alcohol-free zone expired in 2023, but continued public drinking—especially near Pittwater Road and Warringah Mall bus stops prompted its return, with police data and council patrols confirming ongoing alcohol-related disturbances.

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The decision means people will no longer be allowed to drink alcohol on public roads, footpaths, laneways, and carparks within the designated Brookvale zone. Police and rangers will have the authority to seize opened alcohol containers if someone is drinking or appears about to drink in a restricted area.

What the Review Covered

Brookvale was one of 19 alcohol-free zones reviewed by Northern Beaches Council in a region-wide assessment designed to streamline timelines and apply consistent rules. 

The review used police data, complaints, and community input to guide changes, some zones, like Avalon and Newport, were adjusted, while others, including Belrose and Cromer, will be removed due to fewer incidents and reduced concern.

Council confirmed the changes won’t affect licensed outdoor dining, parks or beaches, as alcohol-free zones apply only to road-related areas, aiming to keep shared public spaces safer for families and commuters.

How Residents Can Have Their Say

Northern Beaches Council is seeking community feedback on the proposed zones until Sunday, 27 April 2025, via its “Your Say” website or by written submission.

Residents are encouraged to read the full summary of assessments available online, which outlines the reasons for each zone’s status. In Brookvale’s case, the decision was shaped heavily by safety concerns and the push from authorities to prevent a repeat of past issues.

The Broader Picture

The review reflects ongoing efforts to balance safety and public access, with Brookvale highlighting the challenges of managing alcohol in busy hubs with transport, nightlife, and public facilities.



By returning the suburb to an alcohol-free status, officials hope to prevent late-night disturbances and make key parts of Brookvale more comfortable for everyone. The proposed changes reflect not only policy but also years of community input and policing efforts.

Published 17-April-2025

El Jannah Brings Charcoal Chicken to Brookvale

El Jannah, known for its mouth-watering charcoal chicken, is about to make its northern beaches debut. 



This June, the beloved brand will open its first outlet in Brookvale at Warringah Mall, bringing its signature Lebanese-Australian flavours to a whole new audience. With its cult following already established across Sydney and beyond, El Jannah’s arrival is set to add some serious spice to the local dining scene.

A Legacy of Charcoal and Flame

In 1997, Andre Estephan opened the first El Jannah in Granville. He had a simple vision: serve up perfectly cooked chicken over open wood fires. 

What started as a small venture quickly became a local institution. The combination of smoky, tender chicken and their famous garlic sauce has made El Jannah a favourite, not just in Sydney, but across NSW, ACT, and Victoria.

El Jannah Charcoal Chicken
Photo Credit: El Jannah/Facebook

Now, the northern beaches is ready to experience what so many others have loved for years. With the new Brookvale location, El Jannah will continue to grow, sharing its signature flavours. 

The Menu: A Taste of Tradition with a Twist

El Jannah’s menu brings together the best of Lebanese tradition and modern food trends. The charcoal chicken, of course, is the star of the show. But the menu offers so much more than that.

From crispy falafel rolls and hearty burgers to chips, there’s something for everyone. The shawarma meal, with shawarma beef, fresh vegetables, pickles, and soft Lebanese bread, offers a satisfying taste of the Middle East. 

El Jannah Charcoal Chicken
Photo Credit: El Jannah/Facebook

Recently, El Jannah has also launched a breakfast menu, adding a unique Middle Eastern twist to breakfast classics. The kaki sandwich, made with traditional Lebanese sesame bread, has already become a hit with regulars.

A Fresh Addition to Brookvale’s Dining Scene

With fast food chains like KFC and Oporto already part of the scene, El Jannah will offer something unique to the area.

The outlet is taking over a spot near Supercheap Auto, Fitness First, and Bunnings. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick bite between errands or gathering with friends for a big meal, El Jannah will become a go-to for anyone craving delicious food.

As the opening approaches, El Jannah is on the lookout for local staff. Whether you’re looking for full-time, part-time, or casual work, there’s an opportunity to be part of this growing brand.



El Jannah: More Than Just a Meal

El Jannah is more than just a place to grab a bite. It’s a place where food becomes a way to connect with family and friends. Whether you’re a fan for years or are just discovering it, there’s a warmth to the experience that goes beyond the food.

El Jannah Charcoal Chicken
Photo Credit: El Jannah/Facebook

So if you’re in the area this June, be sure to check it out. With its signature flavours and welcoming atmosphere, it is ready to make its mark on the northern beaches.

Published 14-Feb-2025

Westfield Warringah Mall in Brookvale Plans Downsizing David Jones, Adding New Tenants

Changes are coming to Westfield Warringah Mall in Brookvale after the Scentre Group lodged a development application to redevelop the shopping centre by downsizing David Jones and bringing in three new tenants. 



Per DA2022/1822, the northern section of Westfield Warringah Mall will undergo major changes from the ground floor to the roof. The most significant features of these changes include the accommodation of one new tenant on the ground floor, two new tenants on the second floor, a site for a new gym, and a co-working space. 

Work on Level 2, where David Jones is housed, will comprise some demolition that will create openings for new glazed windows, a new door opening to the common mall, and the construction of a dividing wall to create spaces for two tenants.

Scentre Group also plans to install a pedestrian bridge from the car park on Level 2, in preparation for the 24/7 gym that will have its own security measures, including a swipe card for all members to access the facility outside of the staffed hours.

Warringah Mall
Photo Credit: DA2022/1822
Warringah Mall
Photo Credit: DA2022/1822

The redevelopment will also include a new roof with skylights to increase the safety of the car park, especially at night and a  common walkway on the southern edge of the building.

“The proposal is minor in nature relative to the size of the whole shopping complex,” the urban designers stated in the DA. “The proposal will enhance the function and internal amenity of the site, resulting in minor changes to the built form which will only be slightly visible on the roof.”



The DA is currently under a public notification period until the 2nd of December 2022.