newy.com.au – Demolition of Queens Wharf West will begin in July, clearing the way for the next stage in the renewal of one of Newcastle’s best-known waterfront precincts.
The start of work follows the relocation of Keolis Downer ferry staff across the harbour to a new Stockton-based site office, expected to be completed early next month. Their move marks the departure of the final tenants from the Queens Wharf West building and allows demolition to proceed.
Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said the site’s future held significant potential for the city.
“Queens Wharf has been much-loved by Novocastrians and visitors to our city for decades, and it’s time to continue that legacy for the next generation,” Cr Morris said.
“This redevelopment is a unique opportunity for all of us. We need to make sure that what comes next is fitting for its stunning location, is a drawcard for visitors to this city, and is something we can all be proud of.”
The demolition will begin after several weeks of sub-structural preparation, including the establishment of a floating pontoon to allow utilities connected to the site to be isolated and relocated.
Initial work will focus inside and around the Queens Wharf West building, with internal materials and equipment removed along with balconies and awnings on the northern and southern sides. Crews will then move on to the main structure, working from west to east and from top to bottom, with two excavators operating together to bring the building down to the ground floor slab.
City of Newcastle Interim Executive Director of Infrastructure Robert Dudgeon said the demolition would be a significant moment for the harbour foreshore.
“This is one of the biggest changes in our foreshore in years and demolition of the building is an important step in reimagining Queens Wharf,” Mr Dudgeon said.
“We want the harbour foreshore to stay accessible and safe throughout this work, and we’re working closely with our contractors to keep disruption in the area to a minimum.”
Wharf Road will remain open to vehicles during the works, but the western car park will be fenced off for the duration of the project. Detours will be in place for pedestrians and cyclists, and alternate access routes to the ferry wharf may be used as needed.
There are no anticipated disruptions to the Stockton ferry service. Demolition-related work is expected to take about six months, depending on weather and site conditions.
Queens Wharf has been a popular destination since it was built as a Bicentennial project and officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988. The precinct includes the western building, which has been vacant since a fire in May 2020, as well as the Queens Wharf Hotel, two car parks, a public promenade and the Transport for NSW-owned ferry wharf.
Only the western building is being demolished.
The broader revitalisation of Queens Wharf has received strong community support, with almost 1800 comments and suggestions submitted to City of Newcastle during consultation. The council said 97 per cent of respondents endorsed the overall vision for the project.
A decision on what will be built on the site is expected to be made by the council in the 2026/27 financial year.
