Get involved in green makeover for local streets

City of Newcastle is encouraging local green thumbs to spruce up their neighbourhood by entering the new 'Green Our City' competition.

Green Our City will be running until December and encourages residents to take part in the Street Gardens program by offering the opportunity to plan and install street gardens.

City of Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the focus of the competition is on enabling and encouraging residents to be sustainable, show pride in their street and make a difference in their neighbourhood.

"Green Our City offers residents the chance to be part of an important environmental program, while at the same time improving and greening our streetscape," Councillor Nelmes said.

"As well as being able to lay claim to having the best new street garden in Newcastle, the winner of Green Our City will also receive $500 to spend at a local nursery of their choice."

The Street Gardens initiative provides step by step support and ultimately fast tracks the process of installing a street garden at your home. It includes guidelines that need to be met, information around optimal plant species, and the Street Garden Postcard can also be downloaded, which allows you to share your plans with neighbours.

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said greening Newcastle's streets has never been more important and the Street Gardens program empowers residents to make a difference in their part of the world.

"We want to work with residents to design, install and maintain street gardens because we know the benefits they provide," Councillor Clausen said.

“Apart from simply looking great, street gardens also cool our streets, support pollinators, offer habitat, and filter and limit stormwater runoff into our creeks and waterways. There are also social benefits as it gives residents a way to meet other people and foster a sense of community."

To be a part of Green Our City, residents will need to complete the Street Garden registration form by Monday 23 August to allow time for City of Newcastle to review. Once approved, eligible participants will be notified and will have until December to nurture and grow their street garden, before a panel of judges decides the winner.

For more information, visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/streetgardens or call 4974 2000.