The popular James St Plaza along Beaumont St, Hamilton, is receiving a much-needed makeover with the space transforming into a revitalised and more attractive hub for shoppers and families to visit.
The City of Newcastle is happy to announce the Hamilton community will enjoy the revitalised space sooner than first planned with works already started.
Upgrades include new paving, street furniture, landscaping, artworks and ground etchings acknowledging Hamilton’s rich history.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the upgrade would transform the plaza into a more safe, inclusive, and inviting place for local businesses and the community.
“James Street Plaza is an important space in the Beaumont Street shopping area, and this upgrade will improve the look and feel of the plaza as well as create a safer space for the community to enjoy,” Cr Nelmes said.
“Throughout our community engagement and regular discussions with business owners, we have heard lots of ideas of how to improve the space, and in particular address concerns about safety at night.”
Designed to improve activity in the space and celebrate Hamilton’s unique character, the new upgrades will include an interactive lighting display created in collaboration with the University of Newcastle.
Councillor Carol Duncan said the design reflected broad feedback from the community and contributions from local historian Ruth Cotton, author of Hidden Hamilton.
“Etchings on ground paving and signage in the plaza have been informed by Ruth’s extensive research of Hamilton’s history – from its traditional owners, through the suburb’s history as a mining settlement, its rich European influence from the Lettopalena Italian migrant community, and the impact of the 1989 earthquake,” Cr Duncan said.
“Upgrades to seating, paving and landscaping will better facilitate activation of the space for markets and live music.
“Once this valuable upgrade is complete, the design of James Street Plaza will reflect the rich culture of the suburb of Hamilton and will be an attractive central meeting place for people.”
Community feedback on the lighting concept options will be gathered towards the end of construction, with a completion date expected by mid-2021.
Information source: Media release, Apr 18, City of Newcastle