New Northern NSW Rail Trail to boost jobs and tourism

October 20, 2020

A new rail trail in the northern NSW communities from Casino to Murwillumbah is expected to attract thousands of visitors a year and create much-needed jobs and investment in the state’s Northern Rivers region

Advising that said work will soon get underway on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail project, after the passing of legislation to close two sections of the disused rail corridor, acting NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole stated “the NSW Government is contributing $7.8 million to develop the Tweed stage of the project into a scenic walking and cycling trail, which will help to grow local economies along the rail corridor, increase job opportunities, and provide a safe, accessible transport option for tourists and locals.

“This project will support 200 direct and indirect jobs and once completed, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is expected to attract more than 82,000 visitors annually, injecting much-needed cash flow into local cafes, shops and restaurants.”

The Rail Trail will preserve the unique heritage value of the rail corridor, as well as providing an alternative transport route that connects smaller rural communities to town centres in the Northern Rivers.

The development follows the success of NSW’s pilot rail trail project from Tumbarumba to Rosewood which has delivered a vibrant revitalised area with massive tourism and recreation benefits..

The project is to be completed in stages, with Tweed Council leading the first stage which will redevelop 24 kilometres of track from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, and Richmond Valley Council leading stage two linking 13 kilometres from Casino to Bentley.

The final stage is intended to link approximately 90 kilometres from Bentley to Crabbes Creek and is still in the early stages of development. The community will be consulted on opportunities for complementary public transport and cycling activities in this section of the corridor.

Images show the route of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail project.

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