Manly’s Rollers Bakehouse loses council battle over outdoor seating
Palm Springs-inspired café Rollers Bakehouse, which is tucked away in Rialto Lane, Manly, has been told to pack away its outdoor seating after Northern Beaches Council voted to withdraw approval, citing safety concerns.
Known for its coffee, croissants and colourful pastries, the pastel-toned bakery has been a local favourite since opening in 2018. On busy weekends, it draws up to 600 customers, many of whom enjoy perching on stools and benches outside.
That came to a halt on Tuesday night when councillors decided the lane was too narrow and risky for diners, particularly with delivery trucks and tradies using it regularly. Independent councillor Candy Bingham said the space was never designed for alfresco dining.
“It’s a very dangerous situation,” she said. “People are sitting along benches, pinned to the wall. There is no doubt Rollers is an attraction in Manly … but it’s time to leave this space clear.”
Not all councillors agreed. Independent councillor Vincent De Luca pointed out that there had not been a single safety incident in seven years. “This (ban) will kill this small business,” he said.
Rollers fought to keep its outdoor set-up, even launching a petition that gathered more than 3,100 signatures. Locals rallied behind the café, describing the space as a hub of community life. One supporter, “Anjo” from North Balgowlah, wrote:
“Spontaneous initiatives like these, which create community, should be treasured. Constantly threatening these initiatives with nanny-state rules only creates division and anger in our society.”
Another, “Mitch”, added that places like Rollers “create an eclectic and buzzing atmosphere for all to enjoy. To continue this self-sabotaging trend of wanting to mute Manly’s soul is not in the best interest of locals or visitors.”
Despite the community support, council staff recommended the seating be removed after noting that 11 bollards installed during a nine-month trial were damaged by vehicles. The report concluded that Rialto Lane was “not a suitable location for outdoor dining due to ongoing safety risks and inadequate pedestrian space.”
Rollers manager Loucka Stevens was still hopeful ahead of the meeting. “We’ve been here seven years and there hasn’t been an issue,” he said. “Our regulars really want to keep the seating, especially in the summer when they can sit outside and enjoy our croissants and pastries in the sunshine. We’ve been very mindful about keeping the furniture away from the roadway and keeping our customers safe.”
Councillor De Luca has lodged a Rescission Motion to have the issue debated again at a future meeting.
Jonathan Jackson, 20th August 2025
