Plans unveiled to renew Wickham’s village heart

30 March 2026

newy.com.au – City of Newcastle has unveiled a first look at plans to renew Wickham’s village heart, calling for tenders to deliver pedestrian and public domain upgrades on Union Street.

The project will focus on Union Street between Station and Throsby streets, with plans to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists through traffic calming measures and the introduction of a one-way shared zone. Improved lighting, landscaping, seating and paving are also planned, alongside upgraded stormwater infrastructure, roadway works and new line marking for cyclists.

City of Newcastle chief executive officer Jeremy Bath said the upgrades were part of a broader Wickham Public Domain Plan developed in consultation with the community.

“This is the first project to progress as part of a long-term plan to transform Wickham while celebrating its unique character,” Mr Bath said.

“We worked closely with a number of stakeholders including local community group Great Lifestyle of Wickham during the development of the Public Domain Plan and are pleased to now be moving forward with the first project.

“By breathing new life into Union Street, we will create a sense of place and character for everyone who lives, works or spends time in Wickham.

“We are inviting tenders from experienced contractors to help City of Newcastle bring this vision to life, with a view to commence construction around October this year.”

Specialist heritage advice will be sought to guide the reuse of materials, including the patterned stone pavers that currently line Union Street, with work to preserve and restore the pavers expected to begin in June. Main construction is scheduled for later in the year following the award of the tender.

Community consultation on the Wickham Public Domain Plan was carried out in February 2023, with 74 per cent of respondents supporting the proposed pedestrian network improvements and traffic calming devices. The plan was adopted in November 2023 and outlines a range of improvements to be delivered over many years by City of Newcastle and third parties, including developers.

Mr Bath said Wickham was playing an important role in the strategic shift of Newcastle’s business hub to the city’s west end, with connections to multiple modes of public transport.

“Wickham’s transformation is continuing from its semi-industrial past into a mixed-use urban neighbourhood, with ongoing interest from investors and developers and an increase in residents calling the suburb home,” Mr Bath said.

“The Wickham Public Domain Plan provides a clear, shared vision for future improvements to public spaces and aims to create a welcoming and positive environment while also improving safety and accessibility.”