BELLINGEN Shire Council has awarded the design tender for the Urunga CBD Upgrade to RPS AAP Consulting.
The project is designed to deliver significant improvements to the town’s central business district, creating a more vibrant and welcoming space for residents, businesses, and visitors.
It will also ensure the CBD is easier to navigate for wheelchair users and people with mobility challenges.
The project has received funding of $1.1 million from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Community Fund and $5.26 million from the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Program.
Bellingen Shire Council is also contributing $300,000.
The Urunga CBD Master Plan, developed in 2024, identified several priority areas.
Four of these areas will be the focus of the detailed design stage.
They include Bowra and Bonville streets, Morgo Street, the civic walk area near the Urunga Library, and the access area to the Urunga Lido.
Bellingen Shire Council General Manager Mark Griffioen, said that RPS AAP Consulting was selected based on its experience with urban design and alignment with the vision and objectives for Urunga.
“Some of their previous and current projects include the Elderslie Street Restoration in Winton, Queensland, and the Mackay CBD Revitalisation,” he said in a statement.
“Both improved existing infrastructure while preserving the unique character of each town.”
He said the insights of the Urunga CBD Community Reference Group (CRG) have helped Council understand the skills, experience and approach needed to successfully deliver the project.
Community input will remain central to the project’s success.
“The community will have an opportunity to give feedback on these designs through two structured feedback rounds in 2026, which will be considered by Council staff in final design development.
“Some of the design elements will go beyond what can be built within the current budget… ensuring Council is well positioned for future improvements and grant opportunities.”
The design stage will be finalised in 2026 with completion of the project expected in 2027.
Residents can stay up to date with progress on the Urunga CBD Upgrade or sign-up for the project’s mailing list via Council’s website.
For further information contact the Communication and Engagement Team – commsteam@bellingen.nsw.gov.au – or phone (02) 6655 7300.
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
