City of Newcastle will invest more than $50 million into Wallsend during the next five years as part of a long-term vision to upgrade roads, reduce flood risks and create safer, more connected active transport links.
The multi-year program of significant investments in essential infrastructure will provide a host of benefits including improving traffic flow through road upgrades and widening Minmi Road, flood mitigation, new footpaths and improved public amenity.
Councillor Deahnna Richardson, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Acting CEO David Clarke, Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk, Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen and City of Newcastle staff at the site of the new roundabout, which is one of the projects being delivered in Wallsend during the five-year, $50 million program of work.
The first stage of the Minmi Road Western Corridor widening project starts this week, with the installation of a single-lane roundabout at the busy intersection of Newcastle Road and Cowper Street. This will improve traffic flow during peak periods and ease congestion, reduce bottlenecks, and increase safety for all road users while the Minmi Road Western Corridor works are underway.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the projects will enhance key community infrastructure in the heart of the growing western suburbs.
"We are committed to delivering projects that not only benefit the community now but also pave the way for future progress as our city continues to grow," Cr Nelmes said.
"Newcastle's western suburbs have experienced strong population increases during the past decade, with the Maryland, Fletcher and Minmi area growing by around 46 per cent and Wallsend and Shortland rising by more than 20 per cent since the 2011 Census.
"Our long-term plans for Wallsend recognise the needs of this booming population centre and reinforce our commitment to maintaining and enhancing its essential community infrastructure.
"This includes road and bridge upgrades to alleviate traffic congestion, creating safer and more accessible cycling and pedestrian pathways, as well as enhancing flood mitigation measures to bolster Wallsend's resilience to storm events.
"These upgrades in Wallsend will benefit both businesses and residents by delivering a safer, more attractive place to visit, shop, dine, and meet with friends."
