(City of Newcastle)
Newy 87.8 FM – Construction of almost one kilometre of shared pathway is about to begin in Jesmond as part of City of Newcastle's $2.6 million Jesmond Cycleway project.
The project includes two new bridges across Dark Creek, more trees, fresh landscaping and new lighting to enhance visibility. The pathway will run along the western side of Blue Gum Road and eventually over Dark Creek, passing through Heaton Park and MacClure Reserve.
Chair of City of Newcastle's Liveable Cities Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Joel Pringle, said Jesmond is a key area for active transport, connecting destinations such as the University of Newcastle, Wallsend, Jesmond Park and the shopping centre. He said Jesmond's population has grown by 13 per cent since 2021.
The project is supported by a $2 million grant through the NSW Government's Get NSW Active funding program. Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said the shared pathway will provide additional amenity for walkers, cyclists and other active transport users.
City of Newcastle's Executive Manager of Transport and Regulation Ryan Tranter said the pathway will be more than 900 metres long and three metres wide, providing room for users of different abilities.
Work kicked off earlier this year with a new shared path on the eastern side of Blue Gum Road, road resurfacing, new signage and fresh line marking. Temporary changes for motorists and pedestrians will apply around the work zone during construction.
The project is being delivered in stages and is expected to be completed in late 2027.
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