COMMUNITY feedback has prompted the organisers of next year’s Coates Hire Newcastle 500 to modify the 2.6 kilometre Supercar circuit.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The revised circuit no longer crosses Pacific Park but now runs the length of Watt Street, winds around Shortland Esplanade and then cuts into Zara Street before heading into Parnell Place.
Significantly, the track still runs through the East End where some residents fear the event will have a negative impact on their lives.
But NSW Premier Mike Baird encouraged the race’s opponents to consider its benefits.
"Let me tell you they can rent their places out for a fortune,” he said during a visit to the city on Monday.
The new twisting circuit is designed to better showcase the city and its coastline to more than 200 million viewers worldwide next November.
“This is a world-class circuit that will make for exciting racing for the people of Newcastle,” Supercars chief executive James Warburton said.
“We can’t wait to come to Newcastle and deliver great entertainment on and off the track and showcase the city to the rest of Australia and the world.”
NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said the event would deliver a significant boost to the local economy.
“The race is expected to turbocharge the local economy by attracting approximately 81,000 visitors over the next five years, set to inject $57 million in visitor expenditure,” he said.
“It’s a great opportunity for Newcastle, the Hunter and Supercars fans from across Australia to enjoy the wide array of activities on offer in the region.”
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the council and Supercars were undertaking comprehensive community engagement to get the best possible outcome for residents while ensuring a premier circuit for racing.
""Newcastle City Council thanks the community for their feedback to date. Consultation will continue to minimise any disruption while ensuring the track highlights the best of Newcastle including its famous coastline,” she said.
“With the date and track now locked in we can look forward to planning the next 11 months before the Supercars take to the streets showcasing Newcastle on a global stage.”
Initial road upgrades will begin in late February.
Construction on footbridges and other infrastructure will begin about six weeks out from the event.
Community information sessions to discuss the next stages of planning process will be held at Crowne Plaza, Newcastle on Tuesday between 4.30pm and 8.30pm and Wednesday between 8am and 12pm.
