A group of Narrabri residents is planning to create a scenic river walk following the banks of the Narrabri Creek, a pathway along which residents and visitors can enjoy a bush stroll, jog or bike ride.
The river walk project has the potential to be a significant and ongoing Narrabri community project.
The group will ask Narrabri Shire Council to endorse the proposal and will be looking for external funding and involvement by Narrabri clubs and organisations.
The Narrabri river walk would be a staged project.
The proponents aim to begin with a short section and hope to see the project expanded to become a major walking route, and a valuable facility for Narrabri.
“We are fine tuning our concept, but will begin with the section from Cameron Park to the Violet street low level bridge” said one of the proponent,” Mr Guy Roth.
“But we hope the project will grow to become a much bigger asset for the community.
“We envisage that after stage one, a walk and cycle way between the two bridges, we will continue to extend the pathway across the creek and along the town side river bank behind the caravan park and perhaps link to the MAC Village path”
The river walk project would begin at Cameron Park where children’s play equipment and facilities for visitors would also be upgraded as part of the project.
“Cameron Park is a popular spot for travellers and local residents” said Guy.
“The path would initially lead from the park under the creek bridge to the low level bridge.
“We may extend it back around in a loop with a pathway along Selina street back to Cameron Park or take it along to the rail overbridge and bring the loop back in front of the high school.”
The project has drawn enthusiastic support from local groups.
“It will have benefits for older people who can enjoy an easy walk along the river, for joggers and regular walkers, and cyclists.
“It will be great for kids, for families and for visitors.
“We will prepare a design as a staged project and submit it to Narrabri Shire council for their support” said Guy.
“We will be seeking the council’s support in principle at this stage. Our aim is to seek external funding from a variety of agencies and community donors to fund the walkway.”
The cost of the first stage will be established when the plan is prepared.
“The pathway will be two metres wide, and initially run for about three kilometres” said Mr Roth.
“It will be initially a mix of concrete and asphalt.
“Visitors who stop in Cameron Park like to spend time on the banks and this will give them an opportunity to take in more of the riverside bush attractions.
“Ultimately we see seats along the route.
“But the project will ultimately include picnic or barbecue facilities, historic reference points, engaging the pathway users with our local history.
“In Cameron Park we have gum trees about 300 years old, and we see the pathway as playing a role in promoting bush social and cultural history.”
