City of Newcastle Council has commenced work on a project to transform Hamilton Station Park into a more welcoming place for residents and commuters.
The project has been shaped by community feedback and developed by the Council in collaboration with NSW Police and the NSW Government.
Key features will include the installation of ambient and security lighting to improve safety and visibility, new landscaped areas and garden beds, a community noticeboard incorporating cultural and local stories, as well as a ramp to improve access from Beaumont Street.
Existing seating will be replaced with modular, accessible options featuring Aboriginal artwork, to enhance comfort for visitors and the park’s overall welcoming feel.
The $290,000 project is supported by an $80,000 NSW Government Community Building Partnership grant and funded within Council’s capital works program.
Ward Two Councillors are supporting the project as part of ongoing efforts to improve safety in Hamilton.
“We’re working closely with the community, local support services, NSW Police and the NSW Government on this project to improve safety, accessibly and community use of this area,” said Councillor, Jenny Barrie.
“While the upgrade will not resolve all the complex social issues in the area, it will encourage positive use of the space and reinforce the park as a shared community place.
“By following Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles, we want to increase activation and make the park safer for commuters, the community and nearby businesses.”
The initial works will include the removal of existing elements such as seating, signage, concrete areas and footpaths, as well as the perimeter fence to improve sightlines into the park.
Councillor, Paige Johnson said the project has been designed using community feedback and recommendations from local agencies and police.
“We’ve been engaging positively with locals and businesses about the changes to open up this space and we want to deliver this as something the community can proudly use,” Cr Johnson said.
“Other features of the project include new pedestrian paths, water and electricity connections as well as a hardstand area to support small community events.”
Councillor, Joel Pringle said the upgrades will make the park a more inclusive space for the wider community.
“A new community information board has been developed with City of Newcastle’s Guraki Aboriginal Standing Committee and will help the community learn about the historical and ongoing relationship our Traditional Custodians have with this space,” Cr Pringle said.
“We’ll also be installing a ‘no dig’ garden around the prominent fig tree to safeguard its roots and improve access to shade, while the existing cupboards in the park will be replaced with a purpose-built, weatherproof, donation cupboard, located in a more prominent, well-lit location.”
Work at the site is expected to be completed by mid-2026, with temporary site fencing and managed pedestrian detours in place during construction to ensure public safety.
For more information visit Council’s website.
