Bellingen shire residents can have their say on the environmental review stage of the $32 million Dorrigo Arc Rainforest Centre project.
The proposed information and education centre will feature improved facilities such as parking, picnic areas and amenities. It will also be the start of the proposed Dorrigo Escarpment Great Walk.
The new visitor centre is a single storey building with a spectacular elevated walkway providing a world-class rainforest experience and improved access to walking tracks including the Wonga Walk, and waterfalls of Dorrigo National Park.
This also includes a new car park with bus drop off, electric vehicle charging points and an arrival forecourt as well as nature play and picnic areas.
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is proposing to demolish the existing Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Skywalk, with many materials and components being recycled and re-used to create the new centre and elevated walkway.
“As the existing Dorrigo Rainforest Centre facilities are approaching the end of their useful life, this is an opportunity to enhance the way NPWS showcases local Gumbaynggirr culture and connections,” said NPWS Coffs Coast Director Russell Madeley
“The proposed design minimises environmental impacts, while creating a sustainable visitor precinct that improves accessibility to help everyone experience the park.”
Earlier in the year, NPWS shared the environmental review for the associated multi-day Dorrigo Escarpment Great Walk. NPWS is reviewing the feedback received during the exhibition period and a summary report will be shared once the environmental assessment is determined.
“It’s fantastic that Dorrigo National Park has become a popular visitor location, and we want to make sure that we can sustainably manage this increase into the future.”
The review of the new Dorrigo Arc Rainforest Centre is available for public input until 16 June 2025. Submissions can be provided online at https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/consult.