The Betterment of Wollombi Walking Trail to a Shared Pathway project will create a vital connection between the village centre and the historic Cunneen’s Bridge. Designed to benefit locals, user groups, tourists, and heritage enthusiasts, the pathway will enhance access to this significant site, encouraging visitors to experience its historical importance while supporting opportunities for expanded European and Aboriginal heritage interpretation in the area.
This project is made possible through the $70 million Community Assets Program (CAP), part of the $207 million Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package (CLIRP 2022). Funded by the Australian and NSW governments, the CAP aims to support social recovery in Local Government Areas impacted by the February and June 2022 severe weather and flood events. Through this program, Cessnock City Council has secured funding to restore and improve local community infrastructure for long-term resilience and progress.
Works include upgrading Wollombi Walking Trail to improve access and install historically appropriate curb and guttering using flood resilient materials.
The works include:
The team is making great progress with 80% of the decomposed granite path now complete. The sandstone seating along the path has reached the halfway point, with the team progressing to the installation of handcrafted sandstone kerb to connect with the Wollombi Road T-Intersection High Pedestrian Activity Area.
Works have been progressing well with the construction of decomposed granite paths between Wollombi Road and Cunneen’s Bridge now 70% complete. Installation of turf and sandstone seating is continuing across the site.
Construction is well underway, with approximately 80% of the project now complete. Fill and drainage works are scheduled to continue in July.
Council has been working closely with key stakeholders in the area to ensure that the project reflects the needs and priorities of Wollombi’s residents and business operators. Design has now been completed for the project, and will be progressing to construction phase in June 2025.
A Traffic Management Plan will be in place for the duration of the works and signage will be displayed at various locations to inform the residents and road users. Traffic control and reduced speed limits will be in place for the duration of the works.