Iconic Diggies cafe and kiosk set for lengthy closure to allow for major beachfront works
In about three months, Diggies Cafe and the adjoining North Wollongong Beach Cafe will close their doors for at least six months while major construction works take place
They're among the region's most popular casual waterfront dining venues, regularly attracting long queues as diners grab a seat with a view to enjoy a meal or cuppa by the beach.
In about three months, Diggies Cafe and the adjoining North Wollongong Beach Cafe will close their doors for at least six months while major construction works take place just a few metres away on the beach.
Located on Wollongong's iconic Blue Mile, overlooking North Wollongong Beach, the cafe and kiosk are packed on most days with beach goers seeking a coffee, fish and chips, a burger or meal.
A report to next week's meeting of Wollongong City Council recommends the acceptance of a tender for the venues' leases for a minimum period of five years with two options of five years each.
"The timing of the new lease has been aligned with the upcoming Stage 2 Sea Wall Project, scheduled to commence in February 2026," the report to Council says.
"During this period, the cafe and kiosk will be required to close for approximately six months or longer to facilitate essential building repair works and the construction of the sea wall extension."
Tenders for the cafe and kiosk closed on 21 October and three tenders were received. The successful tenderer is the existing tenant, North Kiosk Pty Ltd.
L to R: The area that will undergo multi-million-dollar sea wall works adjacent to the kiosk and cafe; North Beach kiosk regulars will have access for most of the summer
The report to Council says, "The current operator has occupied the premises under a lease agreement since 2003 and has undertaken substantial improvements to the premises. These enhancements include a full commercial kitchen fit out, and an extension to the dining area, featuring a popular alfresco deck offering scenic views of the beach, harbour and lighthouse."
Should Council agree with the tender recommendation next week, it will result in a rental increase of 132 per cent on the current rent.
Council's vision is to coordinate a joint grand opening of both the revitalised North Wollongong Beach Cafe and Kiosk and the completed second stage of the sea wall "marking a significant milestone in the enhancement of the foreshore precinct".
Diggies will continue to be managed by the same operators, extending their tenure well beyond 20 years
