Last month, Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg talked about his population goal for Lismore. The phrase was 60/40. A population of 60,000 by 2040.

As we move into 2025, Lismore should start to see construction happening across the LGA, both in the housing, commercial and local council sectors.

This means Lismore City Council needs to look at where that growth will occur and plan the infrastructure that will be needed in the next two decades.

This includes growth in our villages. Residents of Clunes and surrounds are invited to take the first step and share their visions and aspirations for the long-term future of the village.

The first in a series of engagement activities for the Clunes Master Plan will be held as drop-in sessions in the park opposite the Clunes Store on:

• Thursday, 7 November from 4-6pm
• Saturday, 9 November from 9-11am

An alternate venue will be announced in the event of wet weather.

These sessions are a chance for everyone to be part of shaping the future vision of Clunes and to address any questions or concerns about the project’s purpose.

The Clunes Master Plan will serve as a framework for the village’s future, capturing what residents value most and setting the foundation for thoughtful, sustainable growth. Rather than focusing on immediate changes, this Master Plan is about creating a shared long-term vision that Council and residents can work toward together.

Lismore Council’s Head of Planning and Environment Graham Snow said Clunes was a well-serviced village centre, but the absence of planning in the past has resulted in poor urban design, particularly in relation to roads and footpaths.

“We really want to hear from current residents about what they like about the village and what should be preserved, but also what is missing and what they would like to see in 30 years and beyond. Our goal is to ensure everyone feels heard and included in shaping the vision of Clunes,” he said.

Lismore City Council has engaged Ethos Urban as the lead consultancy on this important project. Ethos Urban have engaged Barker Ryan Stewart, along with the Living Lab Northern Rivers, to assist.

The objectives are to develop a Master Plan that:

• reflects community values
• integrates sustainable development principles
• identifies future infrastructure requirements
• integrates good urban-design principles
• encourages housing diversity
• minimises land use conflict

“As the regional population grows this is an opportunity to develop a Master Plan for Clunes that will ensure any growth is consistent with the character of the village that people love, identifies what infrastructure is needed and makes sure we meet the needs of future residents,” Mr Snow said. 

Ideas can also be shared via Council’s Your Say page, and there will be multiple opportunities for ongoing input and feedback over the course of the project, which will run until mid-2025.