NSW government, Byron Shire Council flag public land near closed Mullumbimby Railway Station for affordable housing

The state government and Byron council have earmarked public land to help alleviate the area’s dire housing crisis. Here’s what’s in the works.

The state government and Byron Shire Council have earmarked public land near shuttered Mullumbimby Railway Station to help alleviate the area’s dire housing crisis.

Land in the Mullumbimby Rail Corridor will be used for affordable housing and infrastructure like public spaces, car parks and footpaths.

Deputy Premier and Regional NSW Minister Paul Toole said the government was “getting on with the job of helping eliminate the housing pressures in the regions because we know it’s absolutely critical that every family has a roof over their heads”.

Deputy Premier Paul Toole.

“This agreement builds on the $30 million the NSW Liberals and Nationals Government has committed to fast-track the supply of shovel-ready land and deliver more homes for families across regional NSW in response to the Regional Housing Taskforce recommendations.

“We know housing is one of the biggest limiting factors in attracting workers and driving further growth in the regions, which is why we’re also providing $328 million to improve housing supply and ensure locals and key workers moving to the regions have a place to call home.”

The announcement has been made weeks out from the NSW State Election on March 25.

It comes after the 2022 floods and the soaring prices of rentals.

Mullumbimby’s vacant lots have been front and centre on the council’s plans to build more affordable homes for years.

Byron Shire Council Mayor Michael Lyon. Picture: Tessa Flemming

The council’s ping-pong between Mullumbimby’s Lot 22 and the old Mullumbimby Hospital site being suitable spots for the new housing scheme has previously outraged Byron residents.

A large portion of Lot 22 is flood prone and locals have fought against large-scale developments in the area.

Infrastructure Minister b said the railway site was in the right place for affordable housing, close to public transport and the town centre.

“Affordable housing is a major issue in the regions and we’re working hard to create more affordable housing options so people can get themselves into well located, secure homes,” he said.

“This government has committed to 30 per cent affordable and diverse housing on Transport Asset Holding Entity of NSW (TAHE) sites, which is why we’re exploring options to deliver on this commitment through projects just like this in Mullumbimby.

Mullumbimby railway station. Picture: Michael Coghlan

“The renewal of the rail corridor also provides opportunities for supporting infrastructure such as carparking, public open spaces and community facilities.”

Byron Mayor Michael Lyon, said he was pleased to be working with the government on a plan for the TAHE-owned land around Mullumbimby Station.

“The Mullumbimby Masterplan identified this land for long-term affordable housing and we look forward to collaborating with TAHE and engaging with our local community to develop a concept plan that is smart and works with the constraints of this area.

TAHE and the council will work together on to develop a concept plan to be placed on public exhibition this year.

TAHE chief executive Benedicte Colin said community consultation and feedback will be crucial to help develop a concept plan.