Pedestrian and safety upgrades in Kingsford Smith Park and Bentinck St
Published on 01 April 2025
As part of its ongoing commitment to delivering safer and more accessible public spaces, Ballina Shire Council have commenced improvement works in the Kingsford Smith Park precinct.
The upgrades will enhance pedestrian safety and access in this well-used community space and support continued growth of the popular market at Commemoration Park.
The first stage of these works have commenced, involving construction of a new footpath within Kingsford Smith Park, to improve pedestrian connections across the sports precinct, car park areas, and surrounding parklands.
In mid-April, works will begin on Bentinck Street, including the construction of:
- a pedestrian refuge to facilitate safe crossing
- a No Stopping zone on the south side of Bentinck Street between the new refuge and the River Street roundabout
- new kerb and guttering
- stormwater drainage improvements.
These works will enhance access to Kingsford Smith Park and improve pedestrian movement between Commemoration Park, sporting fields, and nearby parking areas.
Traffic and Parking Changes
Throughout the works, Bentinck Street will remain open to two-way traffic, with traffic control measures in place. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to follow signage and exercise caution in the area during this time.
Parking will no longer be permitted on the southern side of Bentinck Street between the new refuge and the River Street roundabout (see map below). Alternate parking remains available along other sections of Bentinck Street and within the formal car parks at Kingsford Smith Park.
The existing bus stop will be relocated west of the existing angle parking.
These upgrades align with the Kingsford Smith Reserve Master Plan, adopted by Council in October 2021, and are designed to improve safety, accessibility, and the overall amenity of the park for community use and sporting events.
The works also support ongoing use and possible future expansion of the market at Commemoration Park.
Council expects these works will be completed by the end of May 2025, weather and site conditions permitting. Council thanks the community for its patience and cooperation during these works.
For more information on the Kingsford Smith Reserve Master Plan, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/council-documents(PDF, 36MB)
