A visionary multi-million dollar grant-funded project in the heart of Tamworth has taken a key step forward after the awarding of a design and construct tender with preliminary works to start on site next week.
The Tamworth Regional Skywalk was awarded a $14.3 million grant from the NSW Government in March 2023. Council will contribute $3.7 million allocated from its Regional Development Fund.
Tamworth Region Mayor Russell Webb said the Skywalk is expected to become the premier walking attraction of the New England North West.
"It will be a unique recreational activity designed to give people of all ages and abilities the chance to enjoy the natural bushland of Victoria Park and provide areas to take in magnificent views towards the Liverpool Ranges," he said.
"We can see it will be well used by residents and be a drawcard for visitors."
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the skywalk will be another great reason to travel to the city of the Big Golden Guitar.
"We all know Tamworth for its country music and country hospitality, but once completed the Tamworth Regional Skywalk will provide another fantastic attraction for visitors and residents alike to take in the area's spectacular scenery," Minister Moriarty said.
Council has appointed Fleetwood Urban Pty Ltd – a leading specialist which has delivered outdoor structures across Australia for more than five decades – as the design and construction contractor for the project following a competitive tender process.
Its team will start initial ground works on the route of the Skywalk from Monday next week. Multiple local businesses will be engaged to work alongside its staff to deliver the project by mid-2026.
The concept for the Skywalk was first talked about in 2021 after the local community identified the need for safer pedestrian links to Oxley Lookout during extensive community consultation to create the Victoria Park Master Plan.
Cr Webb said a dedicated raised walkway will provide a safer alternative option and greater accessibility.
"There are already many walkers who daily stride up Scenic Road to Oxley Lookout but they share the roadway with vehicles so there are some safety concerns – especially with the many bends up the hill," he said.
"We have taken time through the design process to incorporate extensive accessibility considerations which will ensure the Skywalk is able to be used by a broad cross section of our community as well as become a drawcard for visitors."
