The Reconstruction Authority, in partnership with Lismore City Council, has appointed a specialist consultant team led by REALMstudios to begin work on four precinct plans for the future use of flood-affected buyback land across Lismore.
The appointment marks a major milestone in the joint effort between Council and the Reconstruction Authority to plan a sustainable and resilient future for land deemed unsuitable for residential use following the 2022 floods.
The planning process will ensure future uses of the buyback land are guided by local values and aspirations, building on consultation and visioning work undertaken with the community since 2022. Community consultation will continue throughout 2026, with residents and businesses invited to provide feedback on preferred land uses and other locally supported outcomes across the precincts.
The consultant team brings expertise in climate resilience, urban design and landscape architecture, planning, engineering, environmental science and community engagement to support detailed planning across four buyback precincts in Lismore: Lismore CBD, North Lismore, South Lismore and East Lismore.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the appointment was an important step forward for the city’s future, with a strong focus on community-led planning.
“We’ve started conversations with the Reconstruction Authority about piloting practical uses on selected parcels, including additional parking for The Showgrounds and exploring commercial opportunities in South Lismore. These are the kinds of initiatives that support local business and improve functionality while the broader planning work continues.
“Engaging a specialist consultant team ensures technical rigour, creativity and prioritised community engagement will guide this broader approach for the future of these precincts,” he said.
NSW Minister for Recovery and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the project represented an important transition in the flood recovery journey for Lismore and the Northern Rivers.
“With a significant number of voluntary buybacks now complete in Lismore, the NSW Government through the Reconstruction Authority is shifting its focus to how this land can best support safety, resilience and long-term community outcomes.” she said.
“The announcement of REALMstudios shows that we are moving from a time of acquisition to a time of stewardship.
“This work will be undertaken in close partnership with Lismore City Council and the community to explore a range of future land use options that will inform future decisions.
“By integrating flood risk, planning controls and local priorities, I want to help ensure the future use of the buyback land reflects our lived experience together with sound technical evidence.”
Council and the Reconstruction Authority will now work with REALMstudios to confirm a timeline for development of the precinct plans. Further information, including opportunities to participate in upcoming engagement activities, will be announced shortly, with Council continuing to provide updates through its communication channels.
Community members can view maps and further information, and register for updates by selecting “Lismore Precinct Planning: future use of buyback land”.
The broader consultant team includes representatives from Cred Consulting, 89 Degrees East, Dark Lightning, Newton Denny Chapelle, HillPDA Consulting, JDA and Northrop.
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