Cessnock CBD ‘under construction’

Cessnock’s CBD will shortly be ‘under construction’ as works ramp up to deliver the Cessnock CBD Master Plan and associated Cessnock Commercial Precinct Project.  

The vision for the CBD includes thriving retail opportunities, easy access to car parking and well connected, visually appealing public spaces. The new CBD will feature wayfinding signage, cycling opportunities and pedestrian friendly accesses. Stage 1.1 is the first part of a long term project that will transform the CBD of Cessnock.  

Works have kicked off with the installation of the Cumberland Street pedestrian refuge to improve pedestrian access connecting the CBD to Bridges Hill Park. On Sunday 5 May 2019 works will commence on North Avenue and Keene Street to upgrade pedestrian facilities. Crews will undertake night works to limit disruption to traffic and pedestrians.  

North Avenue will be closed during the night works that are expected to take two weeks. A road closure will be in place from 7pm to 5am on Monday to Saturday and from 7pm to 4am on Sundays.  

Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent said the works will be disruptive to normal activity in the CBD but Council has planned works to limit impact where possible.  

“These works are being done in a busy area and with this in mind Council has staged the works to limit the impact on the community. It’s an exciting time for our community and I encourage residents to view the long term vision for the CBD which was developed following extensive community consultation.”  

“Eventually a section of Cooper Street will have a mid-block one way allowing for the inclusion of a town square which would provide a social focus and a ‘heart’ for the CBD.  It would be the place to meet for socialising, entertainment and relaxation.”  

Later this month Council will commence more works under Stage 1.1 which will include the upgrade of Cooper and Charlton Streets. Stage 1.1 will include road pavement improvement featuring a raised threshold treatment, underground drainage works, new pavers, installation of planter boxes, street trees and provision of bench seating. Works also include the reinstallation of a roundabout and associated signs and line markings.  

To find out more about this project including background information and what the future holds for the CBD visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/community/cessnock_construction.  

The project is funded through the Australian Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund and NSW Governments Restart NSW– Resources for Regions Program.

 4/30/2019