Updated 24 May, 2023
Gunnedah Shire Council is delivering some exciting community projects as part of the NSW Public Space Legacy Program.
On August 2020, the NSW Government launched the $250 million program and encouraged councils to submit a plan to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment on how they would accelerate local projects and include a brief project proposal to deliver an open and public space project.
In April 2021, $2 million in funding was allocated to Gunnedah Shire Council for three projects under the Gunnedah Public Spaces Activation Program - the Shared Pathways Connection Program, the Wandobah Road Open Space Enhancement Project and the Poetry Precinct Open Space Activation Project.
The Shared Pathways Connection Program will tie together four open space projects that augment the existing bicycle network in the Gunnedah township and create opportunities for locals to participate in active, healthy recreational activities. The combination of the project will result in the creation of a connected cycle ways 'loop' and 3,970 linear metres of cycle ways/shared pathways. This project is nearing completion.
As part of the already completed Wandobah Road Open Space Enhancement Project, low fencing, intergenerational seating and rubbish bins were installed along the 2.16 kilometres of popular footpath on Wandobah Road over June and July.
The project augments the existing shared pathway network, complements the Gunnedah Shared Pathway Connection Program and increases safety for user groups by discouraging vehicular access to the Wandobah Reserve.
Over on South Street, The Poetry Precinct Open Space Activation Project realises the community's collective vision to create a unique destination and cultural asset that connects the Shire's love of poetry and music, respect for history and heritage, and outdoor lifestyles.
The project will include the installation of a wedding arbor, natural amphitheatre, water fountain enhancements, well-placed locational/interactive way finding signage, irrigation, lighting, shared pathways and mass plantings in the precinct space.
