Category: Newcastle News

The Draft Hunter Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) has been released for public consultation and Transport for NSW is inviting feedback from the community to help shape the final plan, due for release in 2025. 

The Draft Hunter SRITP outlines a vision for transport in the region where all communities are well connected by high quality transport infrastructure and services, allowing people to walk, ride, catch public transport or use their private vehicle safely.

The Hunter region is changing, with significant population growth and increased freight movements within and through the region.

Early engagement activities have been carried out in recent months with local councils, Members of Parliament and key regional representative groups, together with community insights from more than 2000 visits to Transport’s Have Your Say platform.

Through this extensive consultation, analysis and investigation, Transport has identified more than 55 short and medium-term initiatives, which are now on public exhibition for broader community input. 

The Draft Hunter SRITP and related documents are available at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/hunter with submissions invited until Friday 28 February 2025 via that page or by emailingengage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au. Pop-up events will also be scheduled in early 2025 for Transport representatives to talk with local communities.  

The Draft Hunter SRITP is one of nine Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans (SRITPs) being developed to better reflect the transport needs of regional communities now and into the future. 

Expanding on previous transport plans, the SRITPs focus on delivering integrated short, medium and long-term solutions to help drive economic growth, improve connectivity, and enhance the quality of life for residents in the regions.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

“We’re listening to the community, stakeholders, and experts to create a transport network that meets the diverse and dynamic needs of the Hunter region, including its major cities and small villages, across all modes of transport.

“I urge all residents, businesses, community and industry groups to visit the website, take a look at the draft plan and share your feedback.

“A lot of work has gone into developing the draft and we want to make sure Transport for NSW gets it right when it comes to developing the final plan.

“Once all feedback is considered, the final plan will be prepared and released next year.

“The final plan will be accompanied by an implementation strategy to ensure we deliver better transport and road networks across the region and I am excited to see what the community feedback is and what the final plan looks like.”

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:

“With more people moving to and visiting the Hunter, it’s critical we have quality and accessible public transport.

“It’s important this plan accounts for the Hunter’s diverse communities and everyone who lives there, which is why we’re consulting widely with community and experts.

“We want to better serve the people who live in this area and ensure they have access to more services and more places, across all days of the week.

“Our existing transport infrastructure network will be reimagined to support improved roads and public transport connections between homes, work, education, healthcare services and entertainment precincts so everyone can get where they need to be and make the most of our region.”

An 11-year-old girl reported missing from the Newcastle area has been found.

Newcastle City Police thank everyone for their assistance.

A multi-storey affordable housing apartment building will be developed on a key Hunter Street site as City of Newcastle moves forward with a landmark mixed-use project.

The strategically positioned site, known as Rail Bridge Row, sits as a junction between Hunter Street and the Foreshore. 

The project marks the closing of a chapter in Newcastle’s history with the parcel of land the final piece of the former heavy rail corridor to be redeveloped.

The development will also be the second affordable project on the old rail line following the construction of 30 units on Merewether Street in 2020 by Evolve Housing. 

Council voted on Tuesday night to invite expressions of interest (EOI) from community housing providers to work with City of Newcastle on the project, which will include multiple levels of units above a ground floor commercial / retail development.

The partnership would be the first of its kind in the Hunter and could pave the way for similar developments in the future at other City of Newcastle sites.

Chairperson of City of Newcastle’s Asset Advisory Committee, Cr Declan Clausen, said the project could help ease the affordable housing shortage now and into the future.

“A growing population, cost-of-living crisis and shortage of housing including dwellings affordable to those on lower incomes, is exacerbating the stress being felt in households across Newcastle,” Cr Clausen said.

“The Rail Bridge Row project is the first time Council has utilised its own land to help address the housing crisis. As an elected council, we are pulling every lever available to us to increase the supply of social and affordable housing in our city. 

“By partnering with a community housing provider to deliver this project, we are creating a framework that could potentially be replicated across other City of Newcastle sites.”

The EOI will be launched early next year to identify select applicants, who will then be asked to prepare a proposal for the project.

A business case will be presented for Council approval before the preferred community housing provider is engaged.

City of Newcastle recently completed detailed site investigations for the early works and approvals needed to support future development on the site.

The 4,125 sqm lot at 280 Hunter Street stretches from Brown Street to near the intersection of Darby and Hunter Street and is opposite the Crown Street light rail stop. It was purchased by City of Newcastle from Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation in 2020.

In addition to the mixed-use development, the site could also facilitate the delivery of an important east-west commuter cycleway connection, strengthening Newcastle’s cycling infrastructure while enhancing the sustainability and liveability of the city.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage girl missing from the state’s Hunter Region.

Chloe Lawrence, aged 15, was last seen at Newcastle Interchange shortly after midnight today (Sunday 15 December 2024).

When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were notified and an investigation commenced into her whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Chloe’s welfare due to her age.

Chloe is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 150cm tall, of thin build, with shoulder length brown/red hair.

It is not know what she maybe wearing.

Chloe is known to frequent the Newcastle, Bolwarra, Maitland and East-Maitland areas.

Anyone with information into her whereabouts is urged to contact Raymond Terrace Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a missing girl last seen in Newcastle today.

Penelope Lowa, aged 11, was last seen in Newcastle about 12am today (Sunday 15 December 2024).

When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Port Stephens/Hunter Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police and family hold serious concerns for her welfare due to her young age.

Penelope is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 160cm tall, of thin build, with shoulder length brown hair and brown eyes.

She is known to frequent the Maitland, Newcastle and East Maitland areas.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to call Port Stephens Hunter Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

City of Newcastle is investing $2 million into footpaths this year as it takes the next step to make walking and active transport the preferred choice for short trips by 2034.

Councillors voted to adopt the Walking and Mobility Plan on Tuesday night, paving the way to implement a shared vision for enhanced pedestrian safety, accessibility and convenience across the city.

The plan includes a framework for determining how projects will be identified, prioritised, and scheduled.

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said the adoption of the 10-year plan reaffirms a commitment to building and supporting walkable neighbourhoods.

“Walking provides wide-ranging social, environmental and health benefits, and this plan ensures we’re taking the right steps so they can be enjoyed across the community,” Cr Kerridge said.

“One of the first unanimous resolutions of this elected Council was to commit to delivering at least 20 kilometres of new footpaths over this new term of Council, because we know that having the right pedestrian infrastructure is vital to realising our vision of a more walkable Newcastle.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Transport & Regulation Ryan Tranter said almost $2 million has already been allocated this financial year for footpath projects, including Freyberg Street, New Lambton and Traise Street, Waratah, where works are underway.

“Some new projects will update and expand existing pathways, while others will provide missing links and new crossing infrastructure,” Mr Tranter said.

“It’s all about taking a systematic, data-driven approach to make sure we are focusing our resourcing in the most beneficial areas for the community.”

Twenty-four key actions will guide the delivery of the plan, focused around promoting the safety and prioritisation of pedestrians, building and maintaining walkable neighbours, supporting walking trips and destinations, and fostering and celebrating walking in our communities.

Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk, Chair of the Access Inclusion Standing Committee, said that when we refer to walking, we include all pedestrian movements, including mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and prams. 

“The adoption of this Walking and Mobility Plan will ensure pedestrians of all ages, abilities and mobilities, feel safe within the public road space,” Cr Adamczyk said.

“Social equity and inclusivity are at the heart of this plan, because we want to make sure the benefits of walking can be enjoyed by everyone. 

“Including accessibility and socio-demographic factors such as age and disability as essential considerations when prioritising new pedestrian infrastructure projects is important to ensure that what we deliver is accessible and safe for the whole community”. 

Actions in the plan were updated following feedback from its public exhibition earlier this year, to provide clarity around how accessibility will be improved.

It followed an extensive consultation process with the community and other relevant stakeholders to shape the plan.  

The Walking and Mobility Plan aligns with the main objectives of the Newcastle 2040 Community Strategic Plan, helping to make the city a more liveable, sustainable and creative place.

City of Newcastle is inviting the community to provide feedback on its long-term vision for the city, with the update of its Community Strategic Plan, Newcastle 2040, now on public exhibition.  

The Plan was adopted by Council in 2022, and this year underwent a review including community consultation to ensure it continues to align with Novocastrians’ shared vision for a liveable, sustainable, inclusive global city.  

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said the update of Newcastle 2040 is an important step in ensuring Newcastle remains aligned with the aspirations and priorities of the community.  

“Newcastle 2040 is a 10-year roadmap identifying where we are now, where we want to be in the future, and how we’ll get there,” Cr Kerridge said. 

“It’s a plan that represents the community’s shared vision for Newcastle, bringing together who we are, what we love, our challenges, and our opportunities. 

“Since its adoption, City of Newcastle has delivered projects that enhance liveability and inclusivity, including local centre upgrades, improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and investments in vital infrastructure such as sporting facilities and stormwater drainage. 

“We’ve also made strides in sustainability through climate action and initiatives to achieve net-zero emissions. The review process aims to ensure these efforts remain aligned with community expectations and contribute to the continued success of Newcastle.” 

The public exhibition period is now open and concludes on 30 January 2025. All residents, community members and interested stakeholders are encouraged to review the plan and provide feedback by visiting https://haveyoursay.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/newcastle-2040-csp-review

By getting involved, community members also have the chance to win a share of $1,500 in prizes. Community members can participate by completing the online survey or by creating and sharing what they love most about Newcastle with a text, photo or video submission.

The NSW Police Force is being commended for their exceptional bravery and dedication following the heroic actions of Constables Nathan Gray and Daniel Orwell at Shoal Bay Beach.

Around 11:55 pm on the evening of 27 November 2024, police were called to Shoal Bay Beach in response to reports of a swimmer in distress.

Constables Gray and Orwell immediately left the job they were attending and proceeded to Shoal Bay Beach, where witnesses indicated the location of the swimmer in distress.

Upon arrival, officers located a 24-year-old man approximately 30 metres offshore.

The man, who was severely fatigued, was flailing his arms and struggling to stay above water.

Demonstrating extraordinary courage, Constables Gray and Orwell proceeded to the beach area, where Constable Gray removed his uniform and entered the water.

Swimming approximately 50 metres to reach the distressed swimmer, Constable Gray observed the 24-year-old sink below the surface, as he was unable to stay afloat due to his state of exhaustion.

Constable Gray grabbed the man and brought him back to the surface before securing him in a rescue swimming hold to keep his head above water.

He then dragged the swimmer back to shore, where both officers worked together to pull him above the waterline and place him in the recovery position.

At this stage, the 24-year-old was unresponsive but still breathing.

Emergency services were on-site to provide immediate care, and the man was transported to the Mater Hospital for further treatment.

Following medical care, he made a full recovery and was released from the hospital on 28 November 2024.

NSW Police Force is proud of the swift and selfless actions of Constables Gray and Orwell, which undoubtedly saved a life in a challenging and dangerous situation.

This incident serves as a reminder of the vital role our police officers play in protecting the community and responding to emergencies.

The NSW Government continues to stand firmly behind our dedicated police officers, as demonstrated by the recent wage increase – the largest in a generation.

This commitment underscores the value placed on the extraordinary efforts of officers who go above and beyond in their duty to serve and protect the public.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said:

“NSW Police Officers are the finest in Australia – highly trained, deeply committed, and unwavering in their dedication to protecting others. Both officers’ selfless decision to risk their own lives to save someone in need is nothing short of extraordinary.

“The NSW Government is immensely proud of our police officers, who face challenges and dangers every day with courage and resilience.

“This act of bravery is a powerful reminder of the heroism our officers display, putting the safety of others above their own without a moment’s hesitation.

“While most people instinctively move away from danger, police officers run toward it.

“The actions of both officers are powerful examples of the compassion and courage that define the NSW Police Force.”

Police are appealing for public assistance as they investigate two armed robbery incidents in the Hunter region this week.

Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District commenced an investigation following reports of two armed robberies at businesses in Adamstown and New Lambton areas,

About 5.40am on Tuesday (10 December 2024), a man – believed to be with a firearm – entered a business on Glebe Road, Adamstown, where he demanded cash. Police were told the man left empty-handed.
About 1.20am on Thursday (12 December 2024), a man – believed to be armed with a knife – entered a business on Turton Road, New Lambton, before he demanded cash. The man left the scene with a small amount of cash before police arrived.
Initial inquiries indicate the incidents are linked.

As a part of investigation, police are appealing for public assistance to speak to a man who they believe can assist with their inquiries.

The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance and when last seen he was wearing a hooded black jumper with his face covered, and black pants.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate two teenage girls missing from Muswellbrook.

Harper Pickett, aged 13, and Sharlotte Oldham, aged 14, were last seen in Muswellbrook about 6.45am today (Friday 13 December 2024).

When they were unable to be located or contacted, the girls were reported missing to officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District, who commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police hold concerns for Harper and Sharlotte’s welfare due to their young age.

Harper is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall with a thin build, blonde hair and blue eyes.

She was last seen wearing a blue top, pink shorts with a black stripe and black sandals.

Sharlotte is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 140cm tall, with a thin build, blonde hair and blue eyes.

She was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, red and black checkered shorts and was carrying a black bag at the time.

The girls are believed to have boarded a train from Muswellbrook to Newcastle. They may be on the Central Coast and attempting to make their way to Queensland.

Anyone with information into their whereabouts is urged to contact Muswellbrook Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.