Major Upgrades for Urunga Precinct: Boardwalk Works Begin Mid-June

Published on 03 June 2025

Urunga Boardwalk - Aerial shot of water front and boardwalk from the sky

A major milestone is about to take shape on the Urunga waterfront, with construction on the long-anticipated Urunga Boardwalk Upgrade officially commencing on Monday 16 June 2025. All tenders for the Boardwalk project have been locked in, and the first stage will involve establishing a site compound to support construction works.

The boardwalk will be closing from the 23 June, ensuring safety for the public while works are underway. We are planning to have a part of the new boardwalk accessible to the public for the Christmas Holiday period with completion expected in 2026.

Mayor Cr. Steve Allan welcomed the news, stating:

“The Boardwalk upgrade marks a pivotal step forward in the revitalisation of Urunga. The Boardwalk is not only a much-loved local attraction, but also a vital connection to nature and a treasured part of our community's identity. These works will ensure its long-term resilience and accessibility for generations to come.”

The project is jointly funded by the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program – Round 2 and the Bellingen Shire Council. Additional funding was secured through NSW Government Disaster Recovery Fund Assistance Program to fund the reconstruction of the south arm of the boardwalk, after it was impacted in the 2022 flood event.

Together, these investments represent a major commitment to sustainable infrastructure and public access to nature. The Boardwalk upgrade is part of a $12.2 million combined investment across the broader Urunga precinct.

Boardwalk image that shows the length and is surrounded by the ocean waters

Memorial Plaques to Be Safely Stored

Council also wishes to notify the community that memorial plaques currently on the boardwalk will be carefully removed and stored for safekeeping during the construction phase. Council is making every effort to contact families connected to these plaques but is asking that anyone with a plaque or knowledge of one reach out to Council to discuss future plans or express their wishes regarding the plaques.

“These plaques carry deep personal meaning and community history,” said Mayor Allan. “We are treating them with the utmost respect and encourage families to connect with us to ensure their voices are heard.”

More to Come: CBD and Footpath Upgrades

The Urunga Boardwalk Upgrade is just one part of a larger transformation taking place across the Urunga Precinct.

In the heart of town, the Urunga CBD Upgrade Project has secured funding from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund and the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program – Round 2 to bring the community-led vision in the Urunga CBD Master Plan to life. This includes streetscape upgrades, improved public spaces, and a more accessible and vibrant town centre.

To support this project, a Community Reference Group is being formed to collaborate on the design and reflect local aspirations, including representation from the Indigenous community and Crown Land Reserve management.

Additionally, a new shared pathway and footpath replacement project is being delivered through $3.36 million in funding from the NSW Government’s Get NSW Active Program, further enhancing walkability and connectivity for locals and visitors alike.

“This is an exciting time for Urunga,” said Mayor Allan. “We are seeing years of planning and community consultation come to fruition through a coordinated series of projects that honour Urunga’s character while improving its liveability.”

To stay across these projects and timelines visit: bellingen.nsw.gov.au/UrungaPrecinct