Byron Shire Council is expected to call for tenders this week to start the process of refurbishing the Byron Visitors Centre.
The refurbishment is the start of the improving the Railway Square precinct in Byron Bay, which includes Railway Park, the visitors centre and the nearby carpark.
The council has received $260,000 from the NSW Government’s Tourism Demand Driver Infrastucture Fund for the start of the revitalisation project.
It is one of 12 town centre projects identified in the Byron Bay Town Masterplan which was completed last year.
Byron council’s director of sustainable economy and environment Shannon Burt said the the refurbishment of the visitors centre would celebrate Byron’s heritage and history, as well as provide improved facilities for tourists.
‘The renovated Visitors Centre will be the foundation for the Railway Square Revitalisation project which will see the area around the existing Railway Park become the central meeting place in Byron for the community, businesses, artists and visitors,’ Ms Burt said.
‘Concept plans show Railway Park will be extended, and much improved recreation and leisure spaces will be created.
‘We’re working with the community through the Byron Bay Master Plan Leadership Group to realise this vision which Council believes will create a vibrant and totally new space for locals and visitors.’
A request for quotes for the refurbishment for the Byron Visitors Centre will be advertised this week.
The total investment for the start of the Railway Square precinct is $520,000. This includes the NSW Government grant of $260,000 and $210,000 from Byron Shire Council. Members of the Byron Visitors Centre are also contributing $50,000.
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