Bumper investment delivers capital results

Preliminary figures show $91.6 million was invested into Newcastle’s network of roads, community buildings, parks and reserves, making 2018/19 a record year for City of Newcastle capital works.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the City is continuing to deliver major infrastructure upgrades and key projects across the Local Government Area as Newcastle’s population continues to grow.

The capital works expenditure has increased by more than 40 per cent during the past four years, reflecting the City’s commitment to enhancing the liveability of Newcastle for current and future generations.

“Our investment in capital works has been growing over the past four years as we continue to balance infrastructure renewal with revitalisation projects to meet the higher community expectations that come with sustained growth,” the Lord Mayor said.

“On the back of community consultation, we have invested millions to add new playgrounds for families, upgrade aged community facilities and continued our renewal of local business centres to create vibrant and active public spaces.”

Among the projects completed in 2018/19 were the highly popular playground at Blackbutt’s Richley Reserve, the South Stockton Active Hub, a new glass pavilion and gym in the Clarke Grandstand at Merewether’s Mitchell Park, removal of Queens Wharf Tower and the upgrade of Carrington Local Centre.

Other projects completed include the refurbishment of Beresfield Library, road and drainage rehabilitation at various locations including Merewether, The Junction, Carrington, Newcastle CBD, New Lambton and Lambton, pedestrian crossing upgrades in Mayfield, Adamstown, Elermore Vale, Kotara, Rankin Park, Tighes Hill and Waratah, road widening at Minmi Road Wallsend and resurfacing projects across the LGA.
“This achievement is testament to our employees who have put in a mammoth effort to deliver a record amount of work in improving the city,” the Lord Mayor added.

“Major projects, such as the restoration of City Hall, renewal of the Beresfield Local Centre, and expansion of the Summerhill Waste Recovery Centre, have rolled on into the new financial year.

“In addition, work will start on replacing the Tyrrell Street bridge in Wallsend, undertaking the next stage of rehabilitation of Ironbark Creek, as well as continuing to upgrade and renew essential infrastructure such as drainage, roads, footpaths and cycleways.”

The 2019/20 Capital Works program includes $14 million on roads and footpaths; $14.2 million on buildings, structures and places; $5.4 million on stormwater drains; $36 million on the environment; $2 million implementing our Smart City Strategy; and $9.7 million on IT, fleet replacement, minor capital and strategic projects included in our annual budget.