newy.com.au – The ageing public amenities block at Blacksmiths Beach has been demolished ahead of a $1.5 million accessible rebuild.
The new building will include a Changing Places facility for people with high support needs, along with accessible, ambulant and unisex public toilets. Landscaping around the amenities will also be improved.
The project is the first stage of a broader Lake Macquarie City Council program to replace public amenities across the city over the next four years.
Three facilities at Balcolyn, Pirrita Island and Blackalls Park are scheduled for replacement during the 2026-27 financial year, with another 15 upgrades planned between 2027 and 2030.
The federal government has committed $120,000 to the Blacksmiths project through its Accessible Australia initiative, which funds improvements to the accessibility of public spaces.
Lake Macquarie mayor Adam Shultz said the former red-brick building had reached the end of its useful life.
“I remember coming to Blacksmiths Beach as a kid and it was the same red-brick amenities block back then,” Cr Shultz said.
“It’s high time it was replaced, particularly with the growing number of visitors we’re welcoming each year to Blacksmiths Beach, and its status as host of major events like the NSW Surf Life Saving Championships.”
Federal Shortland MP Pat Conroy said the project would make the popular beach more accessible for the community.
The citywide upgrades form part of the council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan, which identifies a need for more accessible amenities and public facilities.
More information about the plan, accessible facilities and the council’s IncludingYOU program is available on its people with disability webpage.
