Landscape concept plan for the Tweed Coast Road widening project

Challenge

The project area included the Chinderah Historic Cemetery and the Cudgen Burial Grounds, sites of cultural significance to the South Sea Islander Community. Past land use changes and infrastructure works had fragmented the burial site, and the future upgrade had the potential to further impact on the cultural sensitivities. Tweed Shire Council requested to elevate the area as a recognised place of regional cultural heritage and support community commemoration and reflection.

Solution

SLR worked with Tweed Shire Council to deliver a landscape concept plan informed by the landscape character and visual impact assessment, detailed site analysis, consultation with South Sea Islander community representatives and alignment with the Tweed Coast Road upgrade. The design introduced protective vegetative buffers, commemorative planting, interpretive features, and pavement artworks that reflect cultural stories. Street trees, endemic species, and landscape treatments were strategically placed to strengthen connections between the burial site, the memorial, and the historic cemetery. Materials, finishes, and culturally significant dry-stone walls were selected to symbolise South Sea Islander history and provide a respectful gateway into the Tweed Coast.

Impact

The project provided a clear pathway for recognising and commemorating the South Sea Islander legacy within the Tweed landscape. By integrating cultural heritage considerations into road infrastructure design, the project re-established connections between fragmented sites, strengthened community recognition, and created a meaningful gateway experience. The outcome enhances both cultural heritage visibility and the scenic character of the Tweed Coast region, contributing to a lasting community benefit and ensuring the burial grounds are protected and honoured for future generations.