Project to breathe new life into Wickham

Artist's impressions of the upgrades to be delivered in Union Street, Wickham.

City of Newcastle has shared a first look at its plans to renew Wickham’s village heart as it calls for tenders to deliver pedestrian and public domain upgrades on Union Street.

The project will enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists with traffic calming measures and the introduction of a one-way shared zone, while improved lighting, landscaping, seating and paving will reinvigorate the area’s appeal.

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said the upgrades formed 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.”

The project, which takes in the area on Union Street between Station and Throsby streets, will also include improved stormwater infrastructure, upgrades to the roadway and new line marking for cyclists.

Specialist heritage advice will be sought to guide the reuse of materials, such as patterned stone pavers that presently line Union Street, with work to preserve and restore the pavers expected to begin in June.

The main construction work is scheduled for later this year, following the award of the tender. 

Community consultation on the Wickham Public Domain Plan was undertaken in February 2023, with 74% of respondents supportive of the proposed pedestrian network improvements and traffic calming devices.

The plan was adopted in November 2023 and sets out a number of improvements that will be delivered over many years by both City of Newcastle and third parties, including developers.

Mr Bath said Wickham is playing a key 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.”