Daracon Group has been appointed to continue the streetscape overhaul on Hunter and Newcomen Streets, after being awarded the tender unanimously at last night's Council meeting.
Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said the work is futureproofing Newcastle's city centre and making it a more attractive place for everyone.
"The improvements that we've been able to make in recent years are contributing to the area's revival and this is another step forward," Cr Morris said.
An artist's impression of the planned upgrades for Hunter Street, looking west from Newcomen Street.
"When we look around at projects like the recently delivered Newcastle Art Gallery, ongoing work at places nearby like Queens Wharf and Foreshore Park, plans for Newcastle Ocean Baths and Rail Bridge Row, Newcastle is an exciting place to be right now.
"We thank the Australian Government for providing significant funding that means we can deliver this project many years sooner than we'd originally expected, which will make for a better-connected and more welcoming Newcastle."
The East End Village project is supported by $16.7 million from the Australian Government's regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.
Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said it was exciting to see this next stage getting underway.
"The Albanese Labor Government's $16.7 million investment is helping transform Newcastle's East End, breathing new life into Hunter Street Mall and creating a more vibrant, accessible and welcoming city centre," Ms Claydon said.
"These upgrades will deliver greener streets, safer and better connections for pedestrians and cyclists, and inviting public spaces where locals and visitors can shop, meet and enjoy everything our city has to offer.
An artist's impression of the planned upgrades for Hunter Street, looking east from Thorn Street.
"I'm particularly pleased to see plans for a new public plaza featuring artwork that celebrates Newcastle's rich Indigenous heritage, recognising the stories, culture and connection to Country that are central to our city's identity.
"This investment is helping shape a city centre that reflects Newcastle's confidence and ambition, while preserving the character and history that make our city unique. It will support local jobs and businesses today, while creating a better connected and more liveable East End for the future."
The work on Hunter and Newcomen Streets will include new road surfaces, footpaths, street trees and gardens, as well as important underground infrastructure.
It will also feature a new public plaza on Market Street, between Hunter Street and Keightley Street, providing a space for people to relax and enjoy a significant new piece of public art to celebrate Newcastle's rich Indigenous history.
The bi-directional cycleway established during previous stages of the project will be continued, providing a vital connection between the city and the harbour.
City of Newcastle Executive Director City Infrastructure David Witherdin said the project will add to recent streetscape upgrades delivered on Hunter, Perkins, Brown and Wolfe Streets.
"Importantly for everyone in the area, we are working towards an early 2028 completion date for this phase," Mr Witherdin said.
"This will mean residents, businesses and visitors will experience less disruption and be able to enjoy this renewed space sooner."
As with previously completed phases, these improvements are intended to integrate with almost $1 billion of residential development in Newcastle's East End, transforming the area into a vibrant and welcoming space for residents, visitors and shoppers.
