A long-missing bike link between Ballina and Alstonville is a step closer, with locals now being asked to help choose the best route.

Ballina Shire Council has released four proposed alignments for a shared walking and cycling path connecting Alstonville to West Ballina, opening them up for public feedback until April 28.

The project fills a gap in the Ballina Shire Bike Plan, with recent investment focused on coastal links between Ballina and Lennox Head, while a safe route to Alstonville has remained off the map.

Council has developed concept designs for a 3-metre-wide shared path, with two options running north of the Bruxner Highway and two to the south.

How the different options vary – To view the full detailed plans and have your say, visit:
www.yoursayballina.com.au/alstonville-west-ballina-shared-path

(Main image above is illustrative only and does not accurately represent the actual paths)

The southern routes include a potential link to the Duck Creek Mountain Bike Park, adding a recreational angle alongside commuter use.

But the project comes with a significant price tag.

High-level estimates range from $27.3 million to $34.8 million, depending on the route selected — raising questions about how and when the project could be funded and delivered.

Council says the options reflect detailed investigations into environmental, engineering and cost constraints.

“Council has undertaken detailed investigations to identify feasible route options, carefully considering environmental, engineering and cost constraints,” Development and Traffic Engineer Patrick Knight said.

“We’re now inviting the community to review the concept designs and tell us what’s important to them, to help inform the selection of a preferred route.”

Each option comes with trade-offs.

Some routes may be more direct but involve complex creek crossings or highway interfaces, while others could require boardwalk sections or have greater environmental impacts.

How the path connects into existing networks — and how safe and practical it is for everyday riders — will also be key factors.

The concept planning has been funded by the NSW Government through the Get NSW Active program, but construction funding has not yet been secured.

If a preferred route is selected, the project would still need to move through planning approvals, funding applications and detailed design before any construction begins, likely in stages.

Community members can review the plans, technical reports and a detailed FAQ, and provide feedback via Council’s Your Say page.

Submissions will be used to help Council determine a final alignment.

For locals, it represents a rare chance to shape a project that could finally make riding or walking between Alstonville and Ballina a scenic, safe and viable option.

The period for public comment closes April 28.