Lismore residents are being asked to help decide what should happen to more than 70 hectares of flood-buyback land across the city.
The new consultation covers Lismore Centre, North Lismore, South Lismore and East Lismore, where more than 600 flood-prone properties have been bought back through the Resilient Homes Program.
The land cannot be returned to housing, meaning the process will help determine how large parts of post-flood Lismore are reshaped in coming years.
Possible future uses include parkland, community and recreation spaces, event and cultural areas, commercial and industrial uses and car parking.
However, any proposals will need to take account of flood risk, cultural heritage, environmental values, costs, maintenance requirements and impacts on nearby residents and businesses.
Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the size of the land involved made the process significant for the city’s future.
‘Over 70 hectares across four precincts is a huge canvas for Lismore’s future. Whether it becomes green space, community hubs, or spaces for local commerce, we want every resident to have a say in shaping spaces that bring new life, connection, and pride back into these areas,’ Ms Saffin said.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the history of the land and the people still living alongside buyback blocks needed to remain central to the process.
‘These places mean a lot to our community. They were people’s homes and there are still families living alongside the buyback blocks,’ Cr Krieg said.
The current 70-hectare figure is larger than earlier estimates, when Council said more than 500 buyback properties covered more than 50 hectares.
Residents can make submissions online, attend drop-in sessions or register for community workshops.
Consultation closes on November 1, with draft precinct plans expected to return for further public feedback in early 2027.
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