Rainbow Road is a dream long in the making, a project that has enjoyed strong community support for over 13 years.
A partnership between Nimbin Community Centre Inc, Nimbin Chamber of Commerce, Lismore City Council and various government agencies, the vision is for construction of a high standard and regionally significant walking track.
It has been a very slow process getting to this point, primarily due to the extensive negotiations that had to be undertaken with affected landowners. These are now finalised. Consequently, we are seeking to change the route of the walking track and negotiations are currently underway with the funding body.
New Section with Improved Access
Due to insurance liability issues for private landholders, the steering committee has decided to investigate removal of the stretch from Cullen Street through to the Headers Sports field, a steep section that required concrete stairs and an expensive bridge across the creek.
We are seeking to replace that section with a new section that will run from Alternative Way through to Peace Park. This will improve access for the less abled. Disability parking spaces will be provided adjoining this section of track and it is anticipated public toilets, a State government pre-election funding commitment, will be constructed in Peace Park serving the park, the pool, and the walking track.
Development Application
Following extensive engineering and design work, together with costings, and community consultation, a development application, signed by all landholders is currently with Lismore City Council for determination. Â
Lighting has been removed from the design. It was never favoured by the community and Council planners have now agreed it’s not necessary.
Project Completion
Project completion has been pushed out to June 2024 although we are hoping it will be constructed before that date.
Track Signage
Ross Wallace, a talented local designer, has been engaged to work on the way-finding signage, working up the ideas he originally presented to the community over 10 years ago. Ross is three-quarters of the way through the redesign process and his creative talent is shining through.
The extensive artwork proposed for the track has progressed following an expression of interest opportunity for local artists. The work of a number of local artists was selected for further development and their detailed submissions are now being reviewed by a panel with expertise in the field.
Comments