Susanna Freymark
We asked the 12 Kyogle Council candidates about the upgrade to Kyogle CBD.
The four options being considered by the council are:
Option 1 – 40kph zone through town centre, replace centre parking between Stratheden Street and Kyogle Road with angle parking and reversing lane, retain town clock in current location, maximise green space, final design would see reduction in car parking of around 75 spaces or a 27% reduction
Option 2 – town clock relocated, 40kph zone through town centre, replace centre parking between Stratheden Street and Kyogle Road with angle parking and reversing lane, town clock moved to Stratheden St Plaza area, final design would see reduction in car parking of around 42 spaces (15% reduction)
Option 3 – retain centre parking and improve landscaping, 40kph zone through town centre, retain current parking arrangements, retain town clock in current location, maximise green space, final design would see a reduction in car parking of around 36 spaces (13% reduction)
Option 4 – no changes other than 40kph zone, 40kph zone through town centre, retain current parking arrangements, retain town clock in current location, no additional landscaping or seating or gardens, no loss of parking spaces on Summerland Way
Research the topic for yourself on the Kyogle Council website and read what your potential future councillors have to say.
We asked all candidates:
What should be done in the upgrade plan for the CBD?
Danielle Mulholland: There was a draft plan put out on public display and commentary from the community. Please note the term ‘draft’. Council has been lobbied for years to beautify the main street in Kyogle and this plan, which has four options, is the first step towards achieving this goal. I expect there will be further drafts until we have a plan that everyone can get on board with.
Robert Cullen: I’m strongly against changing the main street. Centre parking and the town clock are part of Kyogle’s country town character and history. The beauty is the view down the street to the magnificent mountains to the north. Don’t clutter the street. Don’t reduce parking spaces. These plans showed council are out of touch with the people.
Vickie Steward: Retain the centre parking and parking at the rear of the shops, if possible, with alley access to the main street. Without obstructing footpath access, provide additional seating, flower/herb beds and bicycle parking outside key shops, maybe taking a few parallel parking spaces. Introduce a 30km/h zone for pedestrian safety, a goal of zero shop vacancy and summer shade.
Simon Dejoux: This depends on the community. The initial options were designed to generate discussion and suggestions and ensure as many people as possible got to have a say. Before plans are finalised, we need to ensure that they reflect the views of as many people as possible with the aim of retaining and showcasing the best that Kyogle has to offer.
James Murray: The upgrade plan needs scrapping and put the money into a large truck-friendly roundabout at the Sixty-six. Reducing parking spaces isn’t in the interests of shopkeepers. The area around the railway station could be done up as a place to lunch in the shade. Large trees, especially figs and rainforest species are not town friendly and can cause havoc with footpaths and water and sewerage. Bring back rose gardens.
John Burley: Upgrade more open spaces and have pedestrian access to community facilities and landscaping that keeps the rainforest and art deco themes. Completion of Stratheden St and Roxy Lane precinct has $2 million funding secured. The community needs more consultation on the main street
Tom Cooper: To be honest with your readers, having not served on the current council, I don’t feel well enough informed to comment on this issue. However, if I am fortunate enough to be elected on December 4, I commit to revisiting the current plan and seeking further community engagement before a decision is finalised.
VOTE KYOGLE: Know more about the 12 people who could be your next councillors
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