The majority of construction has wrapped up on the 115m stretch of Memorial Drive, which was significantly destroyed after severe weather.
Three years ago, a heavy bout of rainfall caused a catastrophic landslip, collapsing sections of the road and damaging surrounding residences.
With more than 10,000 vehicles traveling along the busy thoroughfare each day, council soon made its restoration a priority.
Now, a robust retaining wall made from steel-reinforced concrete piles has been installed to shore up the site, alongside upgrades to the base of the existing stormwater channel to improve water flow during heavy rain.
The $5 million project is a collaboration between the City of Newcastle (CN) and the federal government’s Roads to Recovery program, which covered $3 million of the hefty bill.
Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said the assistance was well-appreciated.
“We are thankful for the funding from the federal government, which was a vital contribution to enable these essential repairs,” he stated.
“Maintaining and improving our extensive 774km network of local roads is a significant task… and every dollar counts.
“The completion of this project marks a significant step toward a safer, more accessible Memorial Drive for everyone.
“Local families in particular have shared positive feedback since it was completed, noting they now feel much safer on the new footpath with the newly-installed guardrail.”
Work is also underway to restore damaged bushland underneath the embankment, which will see the installation of several varieties of coastal-loving plants, supporting the environment and ensure the stability of the site.
Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon admitted she was happy to see federal government support for the development.
“The combined spend between the council and the government has really enabled this project to jump up the queue and get it done in a timely manner,” she said.
“This stretch of Newcastle coastline is valued by both locals and visitors alike.
“So, it’s great to see it completed in time for the busy summer period.”
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