Council secures $5.26 Million Federal Grant to enhance Urunga CBD

Bellingen Shire Council has been awarded a grant of $5,264,456 under the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Program – Round 2 for the ‘Advancing Economic Growth and Community Connectivity in Urunga CBD’ project. 

This funding will enable transformative upgrades to Urunga’s central business district, enhancing its appeal for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. 

The project, which aligns with the Urunga CBD Masterplan developed through extensive community consultation in 2024, will deliver comprehensive infrastructure improvements, including upgraded pedestrian pathways, public spaces, and foreshore connections.  

These upgrades will create safer, more accessible, and vibrant community spaces, while strengthening connections to key public assets such as the Library and Museum. 

Bellingen Shire Mayor Cr. Steve Allan expressed his enthusiasm for the funding announcement, stating: “This funding is a fantastic result for our community and reflects the incredible effort of our staff in leveraging previously secured funding to make this opportunity possible,” he said.  

“It’s exciting to see the priorities identified through extensive community consultation in our CBD masterplans now moving into action.  

“We’re looking forward to these upgrades enhancing Urunga’s public spaces and fostering both economic growth and community connection for our community and future visitors to our region alike.” 

Bellingen Shire Council General Manager, Mark Griffioen added: “Securing this grant is a testament to the hard work and collaboration between Council and the community,” he said. 

“The planned improvements will not only support local businesses and tourism but also ensure Urunga’s infrastructure can accommodate future growth. This project aligns with our vision of a creative, connected and sustainable community and we are excited to see it come to life.” 

It is anticipated that the project will deliver a range of economic and community benefits, including increased tourism, improved community infrastructure, job creation, and local business growth and sustainability. 

The project will be delivered over the 2024/25, 2025/26, and 2026/27 financial years. A dedicated project webpage will be established shortly to provide further details and updates. 

The funding complements the previously secured $1,001,350 grant through the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities Round 5 for the same project and $3,965,598 through the NSW Government's Regional Tourism Activation Fund Round 2 for the Urunga Boardwalk upgrade project, with the latter set to commence in the coming months. 

Bellingen Shire Council thanks the Federal Government for its investment in regional communities and looks forward to delivering this transformative project for Urunga.