Work will begin next month on the delivery of a new kiosk and accessible public toilets in Newcastle's popular Harbour Foreshore precinct.
Councillors voted unanimously last night to accept a tender for the project, which is valued at more than $3 million and will include unisex ambulant toilets, a parent's change room, and a changing places facility that provides suitable facilities for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets.
An artist's impression of the accessible amenities building and kiosk to be built at Foreshore Park.
The project also includes space for a future kiosk and will commence in May with the removal of the existing playground to pave the way for the construction of the amenities.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the new amenities building is an essential step in delivering the adopted Harbour Foreshore Masterplan.
"The accessible amenities and future kiosk will complement other elements of the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan and enrich the park that Novocastrians and visitors know and love," Cr Nelmes said.
"These early works will help realise the full potential of our adopted Masterplan for our premier city park and major event space, creating a drawcard destination for locals and visitors from across the region to enjoy whilst connecting our city with our harbour's edge."
The centrepiece of the Masterplan will be Livvi's Place, an inclusive regional playground and waterplay area, designed in consultation with the community and Touched by Olivia, a charity dedicated to the delivery of inclusive playspaces across Australia.
Once completed, the playground area will have a distinctly Newcastle character and pay tribute to the city's Aboriginal heritage. The precinct will also have a waterplay area unique to Newcastle.
Extensive tree planting and landscaping will be carried out throughout the precinct as part of the broader masterplan to significantly increase shade canopy and create greener public spaces.
The amenities project is supported by the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.
