Engineering, Passenger Rail

Light rail construction begins in Newcastle

Construction works are to begin on Hunter Street on 12 September for Newcastle’s light rail line, kicking off what the NSW government has called a “major phase” of its $660 million Revitalising Newcastle program.

Initial works are to occur on Hunter Street between Auckland Street and Darby Street, and will include the reallocation of utilities infrastructure such as water, gas, electricity and telecommunications, as well as civil construction work such as road reconfiguration and the installation of light rail track.

Revitalising Newcastle program director Michael Cassel said that preparations for these works had been conducted by the light rail team for over a year.

“This includes creating new pedestrian and vehicle access points between Hunter Street and the harbour, and consultation with local businesses and residents to determine their needs during construction,” Cassel said.

“It’s now time to get on with installing light rail tracks.”

When work begins, traffic will be temporarily diverted around the construction zones, while Honeysuckle Drive, Wharf Road and King Street will remain open.

“Locals can be reassured that Newcastle will remain open for business,” Cassel said.

“Pedestrian access to businesses will be maintained and we will be hosting events and regular attractions around food, fashion, arts and culture to ensure people continue to come into the city.”

Construction works in this section of Hunter Street are expected to be complete by the end of the year.