Byron (and Mullum) Masterplans About to Unfold

Byron Council gets a large amount of criticism from residents and some sections of the media. This barrage is relentless and, unfortunately, never seems to include any of the good things that council does achieve. In order to redress this imbalance, please take notice of the soon to be unfolding of plans that have been in planning for more than a few years. The volunteers of the Byron Masterplan Committee have worked tirelessly to shepherd this process through the system and need to be thanked for their efforts. Residents and neighbours need also to be thanked for some tolerance and patience while the works are carried out.

1. Sandhills Skatepark and Recreation Precinct

Behind the library and the courthouse will soon begin the $2.6 million skateparks and recreation precinct. The project has been through two rounds of community consultation since 2018 and will be put out to tender in the middle of this year. The project is being funded by the NSW Government’s Road and Election Infrastructure Commitment Grant and the Council.

2. Byron Rail Corridor

Byron Bay Rail Corridor Restoration was also expected to start in March but has probably been delayed due to rain. This project will open up the area between Lawson St and the new bus interchange to create a pedestrian and cycling link across the town centre and make what is currently a run-down, unused area accessible to the community. Plans include the creation of a boardwalk and pathways from Butler Street and the western side of the rail corridor, into the town centre and Railway Park.

Let’s hope the design and works are to the same standard as the award-winning Railway Park in Jonson Street. Also of a good standard and getting good reviews is the soon to be completed bus interchange in Butler Street. Well done Councillors, Council staff and everyone who has been involved in these two projects.

3. Mullum Greenspine Parklets

The first stage of the Mullumbimby masterplan is what is known as the Green Spine. This is to make Stuart Street a greener more landscaped thoroughfare. The second stage after this is to make Burringbar Street (the main street thru the heart of Mullum into a “Talking Street” where cars will take a back seat to pedestrians.

The first stage is two Parklets to be installed in Stuart Street, either side of the Burringbar intersection.  It will look a bit like what is in the picture. I think this is a good start and look forward to the rolling out of the Greenspine. However, it behoves me why council has an aversion to engaging local providers to complete these projects. The parklets will be made and delivered by a firm on the Gold Coast to the tune of $55,000. Beats me why they cannot find talented locals to build this, using funky recycled timbers and have some Mullum style flare. This one looks pretty bland and corporate. Come on council, you can do better!