New concept plans for Newcastle Beach

City of Newcastle has released updated concept plans for the Bathers Way – Newcastle Beach project, including a beachside skate bowl positioned within the existing promenade at South Newcastle Beach.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the improvements were in response to feedback on the original design which had been partially built over the beach.

“While these are concept plans only, they demonstrate that we can have a bowl suitable for intermediate skaters and accessible for wheelchair sports, without the need for it to protrude onto the beach,” the Lord Mayor said.

“These concepts allow us to work with the community, skaters, coastal engineers, environmental and geotechnical experts to determine more detailed designs for this stage of the Bathers Way project.

“We’re now asking the community to have their say on these concepts as we undertake formal consultation, refine the detailed designs, and ultimately start construction.”

Following community engagement on the concept images, detailed design will continue towards a state-of-the-art skate park for intermediate to advanced users and wheelchair athletes. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2020.

“This will ensure that we continue to achieve our vision of delivering this fantastic public pathway along one of the most magnificent stretches of coastline in the country,” the Lord Mayor said.

The Bathers Way - Newcastle Beach is the largest and most complex stage of the Bathers Way project.

This stage, which also includes a new kiosk and amenities and outdoor exercise equipment, will transform a section of coast which has long been dormant into a vibrant and attractive place.

Further upgrades are proposed for the Bathers Way between King Edward Park and Newcastle Surf Life Saving Club, including access improvements and a community hub in the Newcastle Beach Pavilion following its redevelopment.

“When the King Edward Park and Memorial Drive sections are completed, Newcastle will boast a stairless six-kilometre coastal pathway that will surpass any in Australia,” the Lord Mayor added.

Have your say on the new concept plans, now until the end of August.