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Fernleigh track meets FAST milestone

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Within two years, the Hunter is set to be home to a 27km shared path from Adamstown to Murrays Beach, a goal that became a step closer to fruition this week, with the southern stretch of the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track (FAST) reaching completion.

The additional 1.6km section of the iconic pathway, between Hilda Street at Belmont South, and Awabakal Avenue at Blacksmiths, is now ready for pedestrian traffic.

The completed southern portion includes a 3m-wide shared path, three upgraded bus stops with new shelters, and associated landscaping, fencing and drainage.

The FAST, which will eventually stretch from the end of the Fernleigh Track to Blacksmiths, is jointly funded by Lake Macquarie City Council and the NSW Government through its Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole says the $300 million fund is designed to encourage more people to visit and spend time away from major cities.

“The Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund has supported more than 60 projects across regional NSW and the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track is a great example of what this fund is designed to deliver,” he said.

“The opening of the southern section of the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track is great news for the Lake Macquarie community and will give residents and visitors another fantastic space to enjoy the region.” 

The project’s focus will now turn to the northern section, taking in the spectacular and culturally significant Belmont Lagoon, before crossing Cold Tea Creek.

Lake Macquarie City Council FAST project manager Tess Dziwulski said that while detailed designs were yet to be finalised, the northern section would include a boardwalk over the lagoon wetland, an eye-catching new bridge over Cold Tea Creek and a platform to take in views of the lagoon and its abundant birdlife.

“We’re also working with Bahtabah Local Aboriginal Land Council and Aboriginal artists to create a public art installation along the northern section, reflecting the important role Belmont Lagoon played, long before European settlement,” she explained.

Design of the northern section is on track to be finished in October, with construction to begin in early 2023. The project is expected to be completed in October 2023.

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