The Wauchope Chamber of Commerce and Industry says work on Wauchope's main street precinct needs to start soon.
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Port Macquarie-Hastings Council adopted the finalised Wauchope Main Street Plan in 2017.
Chamber president Gary Rainbow says the 'ridiculously long process' has dragged on for too many years.
"Obviously, we as a chamber are trying to push the main street makeover along," he said.
"There is a completed design and a project manager has been selected.
"This work is important because of the rapid growth the region has experienced in recent times.
"The entire dynamic of the region is changing and we need to set Wauchope on a path to the future."
The entire dynamimc of the region is changing and we need to set Wauchope on a path to the future.
- Gary Rainbow
Mr Rainbow said Wauchope was well positioned to capture potential shoppers from the Sovereign Hills development and the main street precinct upgrade was vital to that new market.
The works are designed to revitalise the main street area and making it more user-friendly for shoppers.
Alongside treet plants and shaded areas, there are plans to make Oxley Lane one-way from the High Street end to Cameron Street.
"Wauchope can get pretty warm in summer and we need to make it more user friendly," he added.
Council director Alex Fisher says work is expected to commence in August or September this year.
“A tender is currently open to appoint a construction contractor for the upgrades to the Wauchope Main Street,” Ms Fisher said.
“Dependent on contractor scheduling and availability, construction is expected to commence in August or September this year, and take about 12 months to complete.
“Council thanks the Wauchope community for their contribution to the planning process, and we are all looking forward to getting works underway to improve the safety, accessibility and beautification of Wauchope’s Main Street.”
Meanwhile the chamber is involved in several projects in and around the Wauchope and hinterland.
"We have given some feedback on the regional sports fields development," he said.
"The chamber has also started a number of sub-groups which are proving effective.
"Another great project is the riverwalk project which will see historical markers placed along the walk from Hastings Street to Rocks Ferry Reserve.
"That project is in conjunction with Wauchope District Historical Society."
