Harbour Foreshore Precinct Masterplan consultation to begin in early 2020

City of Newcastle will commence community engagement in the new year to develop a masterplan for the Harbour Foreshore Precinct, including an inclusive, regional level playground, water-themed play space and improved cycle amenities along Wharf Road.

The precinct masterplan includes prime community spaces east from Merewether Street and includes the Harbourfront parkland and Joy Cummings Promenade stretching along Wharf Road, former rail sheds, and Foreshore Park’s amphitheatre and parkland near Nobbys Beach.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Foreshore Precinct Masterplan was the next step in revitalising the space as part of the Foreshore Plan of Management, and will be developed in close consultation with the community over the next 12-18 months.

"The community will be involved throughout the process to ensure what is delivered meets community expectations for this important community space,” the Lord Mayor said.

“Foreshore Park and the surrounding harbour precinct is a key attraction among locals and visitors and has important links to the City’s history, so it’s important that people have the opportunity to have their say from the outset.

“As Newcastle continues to evolve as a world-class destination, we must continue to invest in quality, accessible public facilities and event spaces within the heart of the city.

“We must maintain this area as a thriving destination, particularly in light of the accessibility upgrades to Nobbys Beach and Bathers Way.”

Stakeholder engagement and community consultation will be key in the successful delivery of the masterplan project. CN will work with interest groups, schools, residents and local businesses to provide valuable input into the design of the project

“A design reference group will also be established to provide input around technical elements of the playground and water-themed play space, as well as other important features including pedestrian and cylcleway connections and heritage aspects.

The City has received grant funding from Variety – the Children’s Charity, to help fund the design of a ‘Livvi’s Place’ accessible playground for kids of all ages and all abilities. The City has also applied for grant funding from the NSW Government to contribute to a water-themed play space.

Tenders will open Saturday 7 December and close 4 February 2020 for a specialist agency with significant expertise and experience in community engagement practices to develop a comprehensive masterplan for the long-term revitalisation of the Newcastle Foreshore.