An updated vision for Newcastle’s Harbour Foreshore has been revealed, including a revised concept for Foreshore Park as well as new plans for the Wharf Road Precinct.
Today’s updated concept includes 4000 square metres of playspace at Foreshore Park featuring more picnic areas, a significant waterplay space, trees, gardens, and new cycleways.
A cultural heritage walk has also been added, linking back to Newcastle’s Indigenous heritage.
There are additional improvements and avenue trees proposed along Wharf Road and Tug Berth Lane, and a formal tree grove linking two new event spaces, The Grove and The Commons.
City of Newcastle presented the revised concept to the Harbour Foreshore Community Reference Group last night. Several key changes have been made to the preliminary concept plan.
“This project is a great example of City of Newcastle working with our community to deliver its first regional-level recreational park and flexible open space that meets the needs and wants of those who will use Foreshore Park into the future,” Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
“In direct response to the community’s feedback, revisions to the concept for Foreshore Park include the relocation of the inclusive Variety Livvi’s Place playspace and adjoining amenities, and provision for multipurpose rollerskating, scooting and performing arts area.
“We’ve also developed a concept plan to turn the Wharf Road Precinct into a world-class harbourside esplanade,” Cr Nelmes said.
“We are doing this by improving the Joy Cummings promenade, parklands, connecting pathways and cycling infrastructure, improving access to the area, and creating new opportunities for our community and visitors to make the most of the magnificent waterfront location.”
Newcastle Councillor John Mackenzie said he was looking forward to seeing the project progress.
“We’ll continue to work with the Community Reference Group to fine-tune the concept designs ahead of the development of the draft masterplan for the site, which will be placed on public exhibition for broad community feedback later this year,” Cr Mackenzie said.
A key aspect of the concept design is the inclusive Variety Livvi’s Place playspace delivered in partnership with children’s charity Variety.
The Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund is giving $500,000 to the playspace project and a further $300,000 will come from the NSW Government’s Everyone Can Play grant program.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said backing projects like the inclusive playspace in Foreshore Park made it easier for locals and visitors to enjoy the city’s shoreline.
“The Newcastle Harbour Foreshore is the heart of the city, and this project will give people even more reasons to come together and experience the port’s rich history and culture in an inclusive and accessible setting,” Martin said.
Information source: Media release, July 23, City of Newcastle