Memorial Drive’s Upgrade is Complete

5 December 2024

*Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge, Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon and City of Newcastle’s Manager Projects – Sustainability David Grejsen at Memorial Drive, Bar Beach.*

A key coastal road in Newcastle has been revitalised following the completion of a $5 million safety and accessibility project by the City of Newcastle. Memorial Drive, a vital route for over 10,000 vehicles daily, now boasts improved stability and safer pedestrian access after extensive works to repair a 115-metre embankment damaged by heavy rainfall.

The upgrade involved the construction of a robust retaining wall of steel-reinforced concrete piles to stabilise the landslip-affected site. Enhancements to the stormwater channel at the base of the embankment ensure better water flow during downpours, mitigating future risks. Additionally, a new street-level footpath has been installed, providing pedestrians with a safer walkway atop the upgraded embankment.

Supported by $3 million in funding from the Federal Government’s Roads to Recovery Program, the project highlights the importance of collaboration between local and federal bodies. Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge emphasised the significance of the project in ensuring the safety of residents and road users.

“This project represents a major step forward in improving safety and accessibility for everyone using Memorial Drive,” Cr Kerridge said. “Local families have expressed their appreciation, particularly for the new footpath and guardrail, which have made walking along this stretch much safer. The Federal Government’s contribution was crucial in bringing these repairs to life, as maintaining our extensive 774 km of local roads is a demanding and ongoing task.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon echoed the sentiment, praising the timing of the upgrade ahead of the busy summer season. “This iconic stretch of coastline is cherished by locals and visitors alike, and it’s fantastic to see these upgrades completed in time for the summer,” she said. “The Albanese Government is proud to partner with Newcastle to deliver projects that benefit the community.”

Looking ahead, the City of Newcastle will partner with local Landcare groups to revegetate the embankment with coastal plants. This ecological restoration aims to promote environmental health while further fortifying the stability of the site.

The Memorial Drive project exemplifies how targeted infrastructure investment can create safer, more accessible spaces for communities while addressing environmental concerns.