Work Begins on Renewal of Georgetown’s Village Centre

A major upgrade to revitalise the heart of Georgetown has commenced today, aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and overall appeal within the neighbourhood shopping area.

The first stage of the City of Newcastle’s project will involve upgrades to speed control measures and the addition of infrastructure designed to slow down vehicles and reinforce the existing 40km/h zone. The renewal of the existing bus stop will also improve accessibility for commuters, particularly those with mobility challenges.

Subsequent stages will focus on making the precinct more pedestrian-friendly, with the installation of new pedestrian refuges along Georgetown Road. Drainage improvements and utility upgrades are also planned over the coming months, laying the groundwork for a broader transformation of the local centre.

Once completed, the upgraded Georgetown village centre will feature a new plaza on Moate Street, wider footpaths, approximately 30 additional street trees, and safer cycling routes connecting Asher and Parkview Streets.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said that the upgrades would greatly benefit both residents and local businesses.

“Georgetown is a historic village with unique character that deserves recognition and preservation,” Cr Nelmes said.

“We’re committed to creating a vibrant, leafy, and thriving village centre. Georgetown is the ninth precinct to be enhanced under our Local Centres program, which has already seen over $20 million invested in community and small business areas.”

Local business owners have expressed their support for the project. Corrin Dedman from Koko Hairdressing believes the upgrades will help the neighbourhood meet growing demand.

“We’re thrilled about the new plaza and the refreshed streetscape,” Ms Dedman said. “Georgetown is becoming increasingly popular, and these improvements will benefit both locals and visitors to our salon.”

Adrian Taricani from On Point Natural Medicine echoed these sentiments, noting that the project will elevate the area.

“This is an exciting time for Georgetown. We’re particularly looking forward to the additional greenery and improved street appeal,” Mr Taricani said.

As part of City of Newcastle’s commitment to sustainability, a new electric vehicle (EV) charging station will be installed in Georgetown. This is one of 11 locations across Newcastle benefiting from a $270,000 grant under the NSW Government’s Electric Vehicle Strategy.

Georgetown’s transformation is part of City of Newcastle’s Local Centres program, which invests in communities across the city. Other completed local centres include Beresford Avenue, Beresfield; Mitchell Street, Stockton; Young Street, Carrington; James Street Plaza, Hamilton; Llewellyn Street, Merewether; Joslin Street, Kotara; Sandgate Road, Shortland; and Blackbutt Village, New Lambton.