Byron drainage works set to begin

THIS week’s heavy rain across northern NSW has once again highlighted Byron Bay’s flood risks, with $26 million drainage works in the town centre set to begin in September.

The project is designed to reduce flooding impacts for residents and businesses and improve footpaths along Byron Street.

Byron Shire Council manager of assets and major projects Christopher Soulsby said the works followed more than a year of consultation with businesses and would make a noticeable difference.

“We are excited to be making upgrades to the Byron Bay town centre drainage, as we know this will make a big difference to a lot of people,” Soulsby said.

He said the most significant works would take place on Byron Street and there would be some disruption for pedestrians and traffic, with measures in place to reduce noise and dust.

The project builds on recent upgrades at the Sandhills Wetland and Lawson Street (East), which council says are already delivering benefits. Soulsby said completing the town centre works was essential to further reducing flooding.

Funding of $26 million has been awarded from all levels of government, including $13 million from the Australian Government through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program and Preparing Australian Communities Program, and $7 million from the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments Infrastructure Betterment Fund.

Council said more funding would be needed to complete remaining stages, including Fletcher Street.