The state government has confirmed construction of the first stage of Newcastle's light rail project will begin in September.
The work will get under way in Hunter Street and will be completed in stages.
Hunter Street will be closed between Auckland and Darby Streets until the end of the year.
Although it will create disruptions for traffic, the government says the construction will be completed three months earlier than originally expected.
It's expected trams will start running on the line by early 2019.
