Rail Trail not yet open for public use

As anticipation for the region’s newest recreational asset builds, the community is being urged to wait until the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is safe for public use.

The warning comes after reports of people using the trail in recent weeks, despite it not yet being open for public use.

Construction crews are still hard at work along many sections of the 24 km trail and works are scheduled to continue into early 2023.

Project Director Iain Lonsdale explained that construction materials may cause risks to members of the public who access the trail prior to its opening early next year.

Construction materials and heavy machinery are still in use on many parts of the trail and signage has not yet been installed.

“It is great to see people so eager to use the trail. Many have waited a long time to see this project come to fruition and it is not long now until we will all have access to an incredible resource for locals and visitors to enjoy,” Mr Lonsdale said.

“But public safety is our first priority. Construction crews are still working across the length of the trail and there are a range of safety hazards that pose a risk to trail users trying to get a sneak peek ahead of the opening.

“We ask the community to please be patient. We know with the holiday season nearly upon us, people are keen to check out the trail. We want to make sure everyone has a safe and positive experience, so we urge everyone to hold off until the trail opens early next year.”

Work is expected to be completed on the trail early next year, weather permitting, with a host of community activities in the planning to mark its official opening.

To stay updated and be alerted to when the opening date is scheduled, visit northernriversrailtrail.com.au and follow Northern Rivers Rail Trail on social media.