Rail trail anticipation builds as construction plans released
25 October 2022
First conceived almost 10 years ago, anticipation is building for the Northern Rivers Rail Trail now that glimpses of the trail have become visible to road-users on Tweed Valley Way as construction continues along the rail corridor.
People of the Tweed will get a clearer picture of what the Rail Trail will look like following the release of the official Construction Plan for the 24 km attraction which runs from Murwillumbah to Wooyung.
The newly-released Construction Plan provides local businesses and residents with an insight into the infrastructure that will be delivered by family-owned construction company, Hazel Bros, as part of their contract to provide a functional trail.
In addition, an Optional Construction Works Plan includes proposals for future works that may be considered, subject to funding.
Project Director Iain Lonsdale said the 2 plans were created in parallel to be clear about what is being constructed, and to guide the best use of any funds in reserve.
“We are on track to transform the former scenic rail corridor into the region’s newest must-do experience for visitors and locals,” Mr Lonsdale said.
“We hope the trail will support our local economy to thrive and help to generate sustainable economic opportunities to support the Tweed’s long-term future.
“Residents and businesses in villages along the trail route are already getting involved and preparing to make the most of the opportunity to build a vibrant, active community.
“This is a wonderful community asset, and it is important to us that the Tweed community has the opportunity to contribute to creating a rail trail we can all be proud of.”
Tweed residents are encouraged to attend a Community Conversation on 7 November in Murwillumbah to learn what will be delivered prior to the trail opening and contribute their thoughts about potential future works to consider.
The 24 km Tweed section of the rail trail will feature the heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, 18 historic railway bridges, 2 tunnels and stunning scenic landscapes of the world heritage-listed Tweed caldera.
The trail will travel from Murwillumbah through Stokers Siding, Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek before terminating at the Tweed Shire’s southern-most boundary at Wooyung. It will provide a safe, off-road active transport route for residents and visitors.
Eventually, it is envisaged the new shared user path will connect the Tweed Valley with Byron Shire, Lismore and Casino. To be delivered in 4 stages, the 132 km trail is expected to draw thousands of visitors each year to explore and discover the natural beauty and history of the Northern Rivers.
Lismore City Council has secured funding for the 16.3 km South Lismore to Bentley section and work is underway to secure funds for the 15.5 km between Eltham and South Lismore. The 13.4 km stretch between Casino and Bentley in the Richmond Valley is fully funded and is due to open in 2023.