The Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Andrew Constance was today in Newcastle to join the Minister for Planning, Anthony Roberts and Parliamentary Secretary, Scot MacDonald for a press conference regarding the revitalisation of the city.
 |
| Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Andrew Constance. |
Mr Constance made two announcements today: the first about the Newcastle light rail and the second about "The Store" site on Hunter Street.
Newcastle will be home to an exciting Australian first - wire-free light rail.
"This is technology tried and tested overseas in places like France. The energy for the vehicle will be stored onboard and there will be charge points at the stations," Mr Constance said.
"It means Hunter Street won't have any overhead wiring and that will add to the aesthetic value of the Hunter Street precinct."
Mr Constance followed this with the announcement that the "The Store" site on Hunter Street is being taken to market, gathering expressions of interest on how best to use the space.
The state government bought the site in 2015 and has remained practically silent on its plans until now.
"My expectations are to look for the best use but also incorporate a bus and coach interchange, coupled with some commercial opportunities which will, of course, interface incredibly well with the new Wickham interchange," Mr Constance said.
"We'll see the old, run-down car park being removed along with some of the dilapidated, old buildings and that will enable us to progress with the new precinct."
Mr Constance said he was very excited and pleased to be able to make these announcements today.
