It hasn’t been the easiest time for the hinterland town of Newrybar of late.
The sudden closure of the much-loved Harvest restaurant and deli late last year put a dent in the town’s economy that is still being felt by many.
But there was some good news for Newrybar last week with the formal adoption of a new streetscape plan for the village.
The Newrybar Village Centre Streetscape Masterplan, unanimously adopted by Ballina Council, paves the way for a revitalisation of the town centre.
The plan was developed by a team of landscape architects and community engagement specialists, in consultation with stakeholders and the community.
The overall vision is for Newrybar to be a ‘welcoming and vibrant village where character, community and creativity flourish’.
In this vision the town is also an ‘intimate, walkable destination that honours its artisanal spirit, local produce, and deep connection to the natural landscape’.
As a key step in achieving this, the main street of the town is set to become a one-way slow-speed zone, thus allowing space on either side for a continuous footpath, seating, and additional shade trees.
Pedestrian safety
This was in keeping with one of the key goals of the plan, which was to enhance pedestrian movement and safety, using traffic-calming measures, improved crossings, and wider footpaths.
There will also be special ‘gateway treatments’ at the entrance and exit to the town, and the construction of a bus stop.
Parking in the town is also set to get a much-needed overhaul, making for a smoother experience for locals and visitors alike.
A central theme that emerged during the consultation period was that people really valued Newrybar’s village feel, including its heritage-style architecture. One submitter even suggested that the main street might be made horse-friendly or have stables introduced.
They also wanted to create more public open space and amenities, strengthen community connection and activation, and celebrate Newrybar’s artisanal and agricultural identity.
One issue that the community did not agree on was the location of the village’s Rural Fire Service building.
While the RFS wants the building to retain its central location, others want it moved out of the centre of the town in order to better retain the heritage feel of the main street.
With the streetscape plan completed, Ballina Council will now step up the search for funding so that it can become a reality.
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