Plan to shape future of sport and recreation

COMMUNITY and sport groups have been called on to help shape plans and infrastructure projects in Lismore.

Lismore City Council is drafting the Sport and Recreation Plan 2025–2030 as a roadmap to improve facilities, programs and services in the region.

Early feedback focused on upgrades to drainage at sport fields, junior participation programs, and standardised female-friendly changerooms.

Lismore City Council sport and recreation lead Kristy Lenon said the community plays a key role in planning for the future.

“The clubs know their facilities better than anyone and we need their feedback so we can understand what they need,” Ms Lenon said.

“Their feedback helps us make a priority list and we can help them with grants and other projects.”

Council hosted a workshop with NSW peak bodies for Sport and Recreation in November.

One of the aims for Lismore is to maintain and showcase its facilities to host national competitions, including Australian Baseball which returned to Albert Park last year.

Feedback from previous consultations including the Open Space Strategy and the Women in Sport Survey will be incorporated into a draft Sport and Recreation Plan.

Despite the flood, council was able to deliver plenty from its 2020-2024 plan.

Projects included upgrades and funding for Heritage Park, Goonellabah skate park, Northern Rivers rail trail and planning and design for the Nimbin Rainbow Road walking trail.

“Council is working really hard to collaborate with the community and the groups who might be affected by whatever strategy or action plan we take,” Ms Lennon said.

“It’s imperative we get them on board whether its building infrastructure or moving on to another direction.”

The draft Sport and Recreation Plan will be on public exhibition in May.

Anyone who missed the deadline to provide feedback can still share their ideas to [email protected].