The Herald reported yesterday that Newcastle council had been awarded $500,000 for the trial to drop the eat street's speed limit to 30km/h and implement street activations.

It is anticipated 16 car spaces on Darby Street will be moved to behind the library while the trial takes place, however this will be subject to more detailed design.

A council spokesperson said the aim of the trial was to make Darby Street a safer place for pedestrians and cyclists and attract more customers for local businesses.

The six month trial includes a pedestrian crossing at the Darby Street headphones courtyard, a widened footpath between Sanctum and Goldbergs restaurants for outdoor dining, new street furniture and better lighting. There will also be murals on the walls and ground celebrating local and upcoming artists in collaboration with local art festivals.

During the trial, council will engage with the community and Newcastle Business Improvement Association by collecting data and feedback on the changes, the council spokesperson said.

The feedback will be used to inform potential longer-term changes.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin also said if the pilot projects gained widespread community support, the NSW Government - which funded the $500,000 grant - will look to make them permanent.

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