Ballina Shire Council is excited to announce the completion of the Lennox Village Vision, a $11.5m revitalisation project that has transformed the heart of Lennox Head, while preserving its coastal village charm.
This landmark project, which began in late 2021, focused on upgrading Ballina Street from Byron Street to Park Lane and rejuvenating both Ross Park and Lennox Park, improving infrastructure and accessibility for both locals and visitors.
Key features of the project
Infrastructure Improvements: Major upgrades to Ballina Street incorporating Byron Street and Park Lane intersections, including a full road reconstruction, stormwater upgrades, watermain replacement, new pedestrian crossings, widened paved footpaths and a shared zone in the central hub, connecting cafes and restaurants with open green spaces and the coastline.
Ross Park Upgrades: New play equipment, a wheelchair-accessible carousel, interactive public artwork, and a nature-inspired playground design.
Lennox Park Enhancements: The beloved shelter shed has been restored to its former glory after significant renovation work. A new bus stop, toilet amenities, seating areas, and landscaping improvements have improved accessibility and comfort for park visitors.
Cultural Significance: Indigenous language elements from the Nyangbal community integrated into Lennox Park and Ballina Streetscape.
Additional parking: A new public car park has been constructed on the corner of Park Lane and Mackney Lane providing additional parking and better access to local businesses and attractions.
The Lennox Village Vision project was funded by Ballina Shire Council, along with contributions from Australian and State Government programs, including $1.5 million from the Australian Government's Investing in our Communities program, $1.05 million from the NSW Government's Regional Activation Program, $995,000 from the NSW Government's Your High Street Program and $480,000 from the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
This project not only enhances daily life for locals but also stimulates tourism, supports local businesses and promotes a strong and thriving economy.
On Monday 21 October, Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader and the Hon Justine Elliot MP, Assistant Minister for Social Services came together to officially open the rejuvenated Village.
Councillors, stakeholders, contractors, Ballina Shire Council staff, and local Lennox business operators joined the celebrations marking this important milestone and highlighting the bright future ahead for Lennox.
Quotes attributable to Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader:
"The Lennox Village Vision celebrates our community's strong sense of identity. This project has been shaped by the people of Lennox Head, and it reflects their vision for a sustainable, vibrant town that has retained its coastal charm."
"I want to thank our residents and businesses for their patience and support throughout this landmark project, and congratulate all those involved in bringing it to life."
"We invite everyone to come and explore the exciting new features, and to shop, dine and relax in this must-visit destination."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister Elliot:
"Lennox Head is one of our most beautiful coastal villages, and this upgrade continues to uphold the feel of Lennox we know and love, while providing infrastructure improvements for locals.
"We know that visitor numbers in Lennox Head are increasing as more people are drawn to this stunning location – but as that happens across the region, we need to ensure that our locals are catered for and looked after in their own towns.
"As your local Labor MP, I'm proud to be delivering on my election commitment of $1.5 million towards the completion of the Lennox Head village upgrade," Justine said.
