Another chapter for one of Newcastle’s most iconic waterfront precincts is set to start next month.
And, the completion of the relocation of Keolis Downer ferry staff across the harbour to a new Stockton-based site office early in July marks the departure of the final tenants of the Queens Wharf West building, enabling the demolition work to begin.
That process will follow weeks of sub-structural preparations, including the establishment of a floating pontoon.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said the future potential of the locale was exciting.
“Queens Wharf has been much-loved by Novocastrians and visitors to our city for decades,” he explained.
“It’s time to continue that legacy for the next generation.
“This redevelopment is a unique opportunity for all of us.
“We need to make sure that what comes next is fitting for its stunning location, is a drawcard for visitors to this city, and is something we can all be proud of.”
Demolition will kick off inside and around the Queens Wharf West building, with internal materials and equipment removed alongside balconies and awnings on the north and south sides.
Work then starts on the main structure and moves from west to east, top to bottom, with two excavators working in tandem to demolish the premises down to the ground floor slab.
“This is one of the biggest changes in our foreshore in years,” City of Newcastle interim executive director of infrastructure Robert Dudgeon said.
“And, the demolition of the building is an important step in reimagining Queens Wharf.
“We want the harbour foreshore to stay accessible and safe throughout this work.
“So, we’re working closely with our contractors to keep disruption in the area to a minimum.”
Wharf Road will remain open to vehicles, while the western car park is being fenced off throughout the duration of the undertaking, with detours in place for walkers and cyclists.
There’s no anticipated disruptions to the Stockton ferry service.
Queens Wharf has been a popular destination since it was constructed as a Bicentennial project and officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988.
It includes two separate buildings – the western structure, vacant since a fire in May 2020, and the Queens Wharf Hotel, along with two car parks, a public promenade and the Transport for NSW-owned ferry wharf.
Only the western building is being demolished.
Revitalisation of the precinct received strong community support, with almost 1,800 comments and suggestions received by CN during a recent engagement process, with 97% endorsing the overall vision for the venture.
However, a decision on what will be built on the site of the soon to be demolished building is set to be decided by the council in the 2026/27 financial year.
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