Opposition to the redevelopment of Sydney's Bondi Pavilion has been given a boost with the announcement of a union strike action against the project.

Dozens of local residents joined with politicians and union members at Bondi today to announce the so-called "green ban" from the CFMEU.

The group is opposed to Waverley Council's plan to spend $38 million refurbishing the pavilion and has accused the council of attempting to privatise public space.

Veteran unionist Jack Mundey said the pavilion belongs to all Australians. ( ABC News )

Amongst opponents to the redevelopment was former union boss Jack Mundey, who famously ordered members not to work on the demolition of terraces in Sydney's Millers Point and the Rocks District in the 1970's.

"Bondi belongs to Australia," Mr Mundey said.

He said it was important for the union to connect with residents to "save special parts of Australia".

"The union is right behind the ban, and the union has got tremendous support. It will bring the union back to its great power that saved so much of Sydney," he said.

"It's terrific to know that the spirit of the green bans will live on forever."

An artist's impression of the upgraded Bondi Pavilion. ( Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects )

Mayor of Waverley Sally Betts disputed claims the public was not having its say.

"It's absolutely not true that the public is being locked out," she told the ABC.

"The majority of the community is on-side."

Cr Betts said the development has not been finalised, and accused the protesters of "bringing thugs in" a year before development is even due to start.

A concert to "save" the pavilion will be held next weekend.