Proposed development for Nightcap Ranges eco-cabins ‘unique’ boost for tourism

Visitors may soon be able to stay in cabins made from recycled shipping containers, as part of a new tourist development slated for the Lismore region.

Plans for a proposed Nimbin tourist facility, at 289 Crofton Rd.

Residents have been given their first look at a new proposed eco-tourist development in Nimbin.

The development application for a Rural Tourist Facility at 289 Crofton Rd was lodged with Lismore City Council in July and has since been put on exhibition.

The application was submitted by Nicolas and Nicole Lindner and proposes a family owned and run boutique eco-tourism accommodation at the foot of the Nightcap Ranges.

Under the plan, visitors could stay in one of two cabins constructed of recycled shipping containers, facing rainforest and rural farmland surrounds and including views of Goolmangar creek, the Nimbin Rocks and Blue Knob.

Each cabin consists of a single bedroom, small bathroom, kitchenette, dining area, living room and a covered hardwood timber deck.

It is estimated the development would come at a cost of $300,000.

Plans for the proposed cabins in Nimbin. Credit: Container Build Group P/L

The accommodation, titled ‘Contained in Nimbin Accommodation’ would entice visitors to the “scenically beautiful and historic town of Nimbin”, according to a planning report submitted to council.

“There is a healthy demand for the type of rural tourist accommodation proposed in this development application in Nimbin,” the report states.

“Over the last several years several accommodation facilities located in the surrounding area have closed down, meaning the availability of rural tourist accommodation has contracted even though growth in visitors as set out in the Lismore City Council Strategic Plan has increased – e.g. Nimbin Rocks Motel, Crofton Motel, and the Nimbin Roxy are no longer trading.

“The location of the proposed development is beautiful rural countryside, displaying the synthesis between the natural environment and rural production – several working farms are located in the area, along with native forestry, lifestyle and national parks.”

Location of proposed farmstay accommodation in Nimbin. Contributed

The property, which the business owners live on, also boasts managed gardens including 350 fruit and nut trees, vegetable/ herb gardens, and small herd of cattle which are farmed organically to supply sustainable and ethical beef.

“It is envisaged with the organic growth of the rural tourism accommodation business that in the future the business will offer guests the opportunity to experience tours of the permaculture elements of the property including the food forest, vegetable gardens and livestock facilities as part of an overall integrated rural tourist experience,” the application states.

Site plan of the proposed cabins. Credit: Container Build Group P/L

Other eco measures stressed in the application included furnishing the cabins with recyclable materials, reusable crockery, all-natural bathroom/sanitary products, a designated compost area and an eventual aim of running the cabins with 100 per cent renewable energy.

Resident submissions regarding the application can be made until September 9.

To view the development application, head here.