A once-ordinary corner of Wardell has been transformed into a vibrant new village hub.

The opening of a pedestrian-friendly green space marking the completion of stage one of Ballina Shire Council’s Wardell Village Centre Revitalisation.

Located at the western end of Richmond Street, the upgraded precinct features new paving, landscaping, public art, improved lighting and drainage, along with new street furniture and space for local markets and community events.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the $1.7 million project represented more than a facelift.

“This revitalisation is not just about streetscape upgrades – it’s about creating a welcoming heart for Wardell, reconnecting people and supporting the town’s social and economic recovery,” she said.

Removable bollards will allow the space to convert for events, and a shared pedestrian-priority zone with traffic calming measures has been introduced to improve safety and encourage foot traffic.

A major stormwater upgrade along nearby Sinclair Street is also part of the works, with landscaped areas designed to protect the area’s iconic fig trees and native vegetation.

The new space will host its first major event next Saturday (July 26), with the Wardell River Festival set to showcase local creativity, music, food and family activities. Organised by Wardell Core and supported by Ballina Shire Council, the free community event will celebrate the river and the town’s resilience.

The green space project was jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW governments under Local Government Recovery Grants, with additional support through the NSW Highly Impacted Councils Grant and Ballina Shire Council contributions.

What’s next for Wardell?

With the first stage now complete, Council is turning its attention to stage two of the masterplan, Connecting to the River, which includes a boardwalk and pathway linking Sinclair Street with the Wardell War Memorial Hall.

Design work and planning approvals are underway, with construction expected to begin in late 2026 thanks to a $400,000 grant from the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s Resilient Business Activation Program.

More information about the Wardell beautification by council is available here

More information on the Wardell River Festival here