In 2018 council engaged with business owners and the community around the needs for a revitalisation of the Clyde Street car park and toilet facilities. Subsequently Council were successful in a funding application for $225,000 under the NSW Government under the Stronger Country Communities Fund.

Now, with the allocation of funds in council's Operational Plan the $700,000 project is set to break ground.

The comprehensive project will renew the area, replace the ageing public toilet, replace the water mains and water infrastructure under the car park as well as creating safer links to surrounding businesses for pedestrians and easier access for vehicles.

Kempsey Shire Council Manager Infrastructure Delivery Dylan Reeves celebrated the start of works while encouraging shoppers to still support local businesses while using nearby alternative car parks.

"While it has taken longer to get to this stage than we had initially hoped, good things come to those who wait, and this car park and amenities renewal will deliver great things," Mr Reeves said.

"Crucially we are working with the neighbouring businesses every step of the way as this won't be a short construction. We're delivering a complete revitalisation of the space, from the water mains up. And we're encouraging shoppers to help us in supporting those great businesses."

Stage One of the upgrades is due to commence on Wednesday 1 July and is set to run until just before Christmas. While this will require a significant part of the car park to be closed off to the public during that time, council will create marked walkways and advertise the alternative nearby parking options.

In the first weeks there will be additional impacts as council's water and sewer teams will be replacing 150 metres of water mains and renewing 12 water connections to buildings within the Clyde St carpark area.

To minimise impact on business, the work is scheduled to occur after hours between 6pm and 2am Monday to Friday. The entire carpark will need to be closed at night while these works take place and access will be restricted.

This part of the project is expected to take four weeks to complete.

For more information on the project go to council's website www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/clyde-street or phone Council's Customer Service Centre on 6566 3200.