Wardell Village Foreshore Upgrade

• Project value$1.065 million
• Project scheduleAugust/September 2026 — February/March 2027

In November 2023, Council adopted the Wardell Village Centre Revitalisation Master Plan, developed following extensive consultation with local residents and business owners. The Master Plan outlines a long‑term vision to make Wardell’s village centre more vibrant, welcoming and resilient.

The plan includes improvements across three key areas:

• Connecting to the River
• The Street
• A Community Green Space (now completed)

This page provides information about the ‘Connecting to the River’ stage, which focuses on improving the Wardell foreshore and strengthening the connection between the village and the Richmond River.

Funding

Council has secured funding from the NSW Government’s Resilient Business Activation Program to deliver upgrades to the Wardell foreshore between Sinclair Street and the Wardell War Memorial Hall.

These works implement actions identified in the Wardell Village Centre Revitalisation Master Plan and aim to strengthen the village’s public spaces, support local businesses, and enhance resilience following recent flood events.

Planned improvements

The project involves building new walking and public space infrastructure on Crown‑owned foreshore land to make the area safer, more comfortable and easier to enjoy.

The project will include:

• a timber boardwalk around the existing fig tree
• updated footpaths and paving
• seating and streetscape improvements
• planting, turf establishment and signage

When complete, the upgraded foreshore will provide a pleasant riverside area for walking, resting and enjoying the river, while complementing the character of Wardell village.

Environmental considerations

A Review of Environmental Factors (REF) has been prepared for the project. This assessment looked at potential impacts on plants and animals, noise, soil erosion, heritage and other environmental factors.

The REF found that, with appropriate management measures in place, the project is not expected to result in significant environmental impacts. Additional tree planting and landscaping will also help improve habitat opportunities for local wildlife and enhance the overall foreshore environment.

Boat ramp removal and foreshore rehabilitation

As part of the project, the existing dilapidated boat ramp located on Crown land in front of the Wardell Hotel will be removed. This area will then be rehabilitated with rock revetment and landscaping works to stabilise the riverbank, improve safety and enhance the appearance of the foreshore.