Market Street Entertainment Precinct
Transforming an archaeologically sensitive rail corridor into one of Newcastle's greatest public spaces.
In 2017, Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation engaged the expertise of The APP Group for the transformation of Market Street Lawn, including the heritage-listed Newcastle Signal Box. The Market Street Entertainment Precinct involved the revitalisation of a former railway corridor, creating an attractive green space connecting the CBD with the harbour waterfront. With the Light Rail being built during the time of redevelopment, the precinct aimed to create a place where the community could play, relax and reconnect with the harbour in a new public space.
Our team managed the project and provided strategic advisory, development management, and design and construction management. The heritage-listed Signal Box building was restored and a mezzanine was constructed to allow visitors to view historically significant train signals. An illuminated water feature was also added to create a focal point for the large public domain space.
The precinct was designed to embrace the many layers of archaeological features, from the early uses for food and shelter by Aboriginal peoples to the former boat harbour, fishery building, State Trawler Fish Depot and an old railway turntable. Market Street Lawn and The Station now enjoy community events, markets, music and food, children's entertainment and community celebrations. Major events are also hosted here such as the fun run and the Supercars.
