Revitalisation of iconic harbourside precinct swings into action

The City of Newcastle is making significant progress on its Harbour Foreshore Masterplan by seeking expressions of interest (EOI) from contractors to deliver the city’s largest playground.

This inclusive regional playspace and waterplay area, located at the western end of Foreshore Park, will embody a distinctly Newcastle character. It will honour the city’s Aboriginal heritage and its industrial and maritime connections.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes emphasised the city’s dedication to enhancing recreational opportunities for the community.

“We know how much our community values open spaces and the opportunity to spend more time outdoors and engage in an active and healthy lifestyle,” Cr Nelmes said. “This is why we continue to invest in and deliver a range of local, district, and regional level playgrounds to ensure everyone has the opportunity to access quality facilities now and into the future.”

The EOI process, closing on 20 August, will help City of Newcastle shortlist qualified contractors for the design and construction of the new playground and waterplay area.

Additionally, work is in progress to construct an accessible amenities building and kiosk to serve playground users and the broader park.

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen highlighted the importance of these staged works as key elements of the larger Foreshore Masterplan, which aims to unlock the full potential of the city’s premier park and events space.

“Our Harbour Foreshore Masterplan will deliver enhanced connectivity between the city and the harbour’s edge around Foreshore Park and along the Joy Cummings Promenade, creating a drawcard destination for locals and visitors from across the region to enjoy,” Cr Clausen said.

“The playspace project is a fantastic example of collaboration between City of Newcastle, our community, and Touched by Olivia, a charity dedicated to the delivery of inclusive playspaces across Australia. It will transform the Harbour Foreshore into a more inviting recreational space that is inclusive and accessible for all members of the community.”

The flagship playground project aims to provide a fun, inclusive, and intergenerational experience that showcases distinct Newcastle stories related to trade, exchange, history, culture, and environment.

It will feature areas for juniors and toddlers, water and nature-based play areas, and quiet spaces, all connected via accessible paths, seating, shade, gardens, and lawns.

Unique playground equipment will enhance its local character, including a central whale-themed swing area inspired by a traditional Awabakal story and an elevated play structure symbolising Newcastle’s strong industrial heritage.

Extensive tree planting and landscaping throughout the precinct will significantly increase the shade canopy and create greener public spaces as part of the broader masterplan.

The project is supported by the NSW Government, Variety the Children’s Charity, Touched by Olivia Foundation, and the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.