The upgrade of the Orchardtown Road village will include an off-road shared pedestrian and cycle path, a new pedestrian crossing, improved footpath connections to Blackbutt Reserve, introduction of a 40km/h high pedestrian activity area, and renewed drainage, kerbs, gutters, road surfaces, footpaths, lighting, street furniture, tree planting and landscaping.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the upgrade came after engagement with the community on their ideas for the area.

"Early in this project the community highlighted concerns about safety, and in particular safety when crossing the busy Orchardtown Road," Cr Nelmes said. "Our team have been busy developing a design that both improves safety and encourages pedestrians and cyclists to the area, as well as making it a safer place to park."

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Traffic and Transport Manager Ryan Tranter said council was looking at the introduction of timed parking in the local area.

"Parking safety and turnover issues have been strongly identified throughout community consultation to date," Mr Tranter said.

A workshop was held with business owners, while the community will be invited to provide feedback on timed parking in coming months.

Construction is estimated to be complete by early 2024. The upgrade has been supported with a $591,677 NSW Government Resources for Regions grant.

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