Camp Shortland’s Next Chapter: Newcastle Locals Asked to Shape Future of Popular Foreshore Space

newy.com.au – Locals are being asked to help shape the future of Camp Shortland, as City of Newcastle prepares to lock in long-term plans for the popular harbourside precinct following the end of the Newcastle 500.

Since the street race’s arrival in 2017, the former track area within Camp Shortland has been transformed into a vibrant community space between events, featuring temporary installations such as fitness stations, a children’s maze, hopscotch, and a half basketball court. With the motorsport event no longer part of the city’s calendar, Council is turning its attention to how the area should evolve from here.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Creative and Community Services, Alissa Jones, said the current round of consultation is about understanding how people have been using the space and what they’d like to see kept. “We know this area has become a much-loved spot for outdoor activity. Now that we’re planning its future without the Supercars, we want to hear what the community values most,” she said.

Alongside community input on the temporary facilities, the plan includes upgrades to permanent infrastructure such as barbecue areas, shelters, seating and interpretive signage that reflects the site’s historical significance. These improvements aim to support year-round use and preserve the space as a recreational asset.

Staff from City of Newcastle will be available onsite to discuss the project and answer questions on Saturday 26 April from 10am to 2.30pm, and again on Friday 9 May between 6.30am and 10am. Locals can also provide feedback via the Council’s Have Your Say webpage, with submissions open until 5pm on 6 June.