Blayney Shire Council will start construction of the much-anticipated walk along the Belubula River in late Spring 2018, with an eye on completing construction by the end of summer 2019.
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The council received $310,052 in the first round of NSW government’s Stronger Country Communities Funding to construct the 720 metre long, 2.5 metre wide path from Dakers Oval along Henry Street to the existing paths network at the school bus stop in Martin Street.
Cleanups of the river have already begun with support from community organisations to remove willow trees and weeds and replace them with native plants.
Blayney Town Association chairman Bill Burdett said the community were “absolutely delighted” at the news the walk would be going ahead.
“The Belubula river that runs through town has over the years been overrun by blackberries and weeds and has been a site for depositing rubbish and it’s needed a darn good clean-up for a while,” he said.
Mr Burdett said the first initial stage of cleaning up the river at Dakers Oval clearing weeds had had a noticeable impact on the water quality.
“It’s far superior already, it’s like chalk and cheese,” he said.
He said there were discussions with council to include amenities like a barbecue, park tables and fitness equipment along the path to create a more inviting space along the river.
Blayney Shire councillor Bruce Reynolds said he supported the path.
“I welcome the opportunity to providing this facility for the community and allow a lot of people the opportunity to enjoy the Belubula river and connect sporting facilities to the centre of Blayney,” he said.