Lennox Head is set for its summer tourist boom following the completion of upgrades to the town’s iconic beachfront parkland.

Declared a National Surfing Reserve in 2007, Lennox Head is well known for its surf breaks, golden beaches, lakes and cafes – and the locals are passionate about their patch of paradise.

Landscape Architect Sheryn Da-Re said public feedback played a key part in designing the new-look park in the heart of town.

“The Lennox Head village centre upgrade was designed as a collaboration between Council and the community, slowing cars and improving accessibility for people were key aspirations of the community design group,” Ms Da-Re said. 

“These aspirations have been delivered in many ways, including through the incorporation of a central ‘shared zone’ which is a pedestrian priority area, level pedestrian crossing points, accessible public toilets and outdoor shower areas, a variety of seating types suitable for various capabilities, and the incorporation of community art.”

Lennox Head already attracts around 109,000 visitors each year, and it’s hoped the upgrades will help the town tap into the accessible tourism market and boost that figure further.

The upgraded park is directly opposite Lennox’s bustling shop, café and restaurant strip, and provides the perfect spot to enjoy some takeaway by the beach.

Team Leader Destination and Visitor Experience for Ballina Shire, Alanah Ward, said Council hopes to welcome new and returning visitors to the region. 

“The enhancement of Lennox Park is set to bolster the appeal of Ballina Shire as a destination that welcomes the inclusive tourism market,” Ms Ward said. 

“This upgrade is integral to a series of developments designed to provide enjoyable experiences for visitors of all abilities.”

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s People with Disability in Australia Report (2024) found that 18 per cent of Australians, or 4.4 million people, have a disability.

Twenty-two per cent, or 5.5 million Australians, have a long-term health condition, and 55 per cent of Australians with a disability have mobility challenges.

In the June quarter 2023, Tourism Research Australia estimates the total value of domestic travel by people with accessibility needs and people who travelled with them was $6.8 billion – representing 21 per cent of total domestic tourism spend in that quarter.

With 101 businesses located in the Lennox Head Village Precinct, increased accessibility is expected to deliver dividends for the local economy.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Executive Director Harriet Whyte said the NSW Government is proud to support accessibility improvements that open regional NSW up for more visitors to enjoy. 

“Whether it’s people with disability, our aging population, or parents with strollers, projects like the Lennox Park Accessibility upgrade make a real difference to the lives of people living in or visiting regional NSW,” Ms Whyte said.

“Increased visitation and longer stays also have a flow-on effect for local shops, cafes and accommodation providers and help boost regional economies.”

Ballina Shire Council received $700,297 from the NSW Government to create an all-access raised threshold crossing on the main street linking Lennox Park to other attractions and experiences as well as building accessible toilets and change facilities, picnic facilities, accessible paths, shelters and viewing locations, electricity, transit stop improvements and creation of a pop-up event space.

The Lennox Park upgrades are part of a broader town centre revitalisation called the Village Vision, which aims to attract inclusive tourism and improve the visitor experience.