Project update

Thanks for having your say! Concept designs for the pedestrian connection at Traise Street, Waratah were approved by Council on 27 February 2024. Read below to find out what we heard.

Detailed design for this project is underway. We will continue to update the community as the project progresses.

We recently sought feedback on a proposal to construct kerb extensions and a footpath along Christo Road from Lambton Road to Traise Street, and along Traise Street to Clarence Road.

Works will include:

• Construction of a footpath on the north side of Christo Road between Lambton Road and Traise Street and on the north side of Traise Street between Christo Road and Clarence Road
• Construction of kerb ramps to allow accessible crossing of Christo Road west of Traise Street
• Kerb realignment to improve traffic flows and provide sufficient width for an accessible footpath

Why was this proposed?

Pedestrian connectivity along Traise Street is part of a larger project which will improve accessibility between the three adjoining suburbs: Waratah, Lambton and North Lambton. The next stage of this project will include a pedestrian connection from Clarence Road to Verulam Street, with footpath sections on Acacia Avenue and Griffith Road, and a crossing point on Acacia Avenue.

The complete project will improve access to bus stops and signalised crossings on Lambton Road and Griffith Road. This will increase options for people wanting to walk or catch public transport in this area, enabling people to reach schools, parks and local centres.

This consultation, which is supported by the Newcastle City Traffic Committee, was undertaken to ensure that the community was informed and had the opportunity to provide feedback.

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on the planned pedestrian connection for Traise Street, Waratah.

During public exhibition, 12 submissions were received. Nine of these community members supported the proposal (including 6 with changes) and three submissions did not support the proposal.

It was suggested that the footpath is extended along Christo Road to Clarence Road. This will be considered under Stage 2 of the project.

Other concerns raised include the loss of parking associated with kerb extensions and road narrowing causing safety issues, and requests for further traffic calming.

Road narrowing will improve road safety by reducing driver speeds, and all residents have access to off-street parking. Road safety and parking will be monitored post construction. Further traffic calming infrastructure will be considered as part of the Local Area Traffic Management Program.