City of Newcastle will commence work next week to ensure the safety and longevity of the Bathers Way coastal precinct between Dixon Park and South Newcastle beaches.

The impact of weather and coastal erosion has taken a toll on infrastructure along the stretch, prompting two key projects to stabilise a section of cliff face north of Dixon Park Surf Lifesaving Club and maintain the concrete seawall south of South Newcastle Beach.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Planning and Environment, Michelle Bisson, said the work would provide an immediate solution while long-term strategies are developed under the Southern Beaches Coastal Management Program (CMP).

“We live in a challenging coastal environment where significant weather events, combined with long-term sea level rise, constantly take a toll on both the natural and built infrastructure,” Michelle said.

“In the immediate term, this work will improve resilience to coastal erosion and enhance safety along Bathers Way.

“We are also looking to the future with our Southern Beaches CMP, working with coastal experts to understand the long-term impacts and what they mean for the use of these beaches and surrounding infrastructure.”

Work will begin on Monday to address coastal erosion along a 60-metre section of cliff north of Dixon Park Surf Life Saving Club. A temporary rock bag structure will be installed at the base of the cliff to stabilise the area until a long-term solution is identified.

During this project, the lower car park at Dixon Park Beach and part of Bathers Way will be closed with diversions in place, with work expected to take around four weeks.

On the same day, essential maintenance will begin on the 147-metre-long seawall between King Edward Park and South Newcastle Beach. A protective coating will be applied to extend the lifespan of the seawall, ensuring continued protection for Bathers Way and surrounding infrastructure.

This project is expected to take up to two months. During this time, Bathers Way will be closed to pedestrian and cyclist traffic on weekdays, reopening on weekends.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of City Infrastructure, Clint Thomson, said the works were planned to minimise disruption as much as possible.

“We know how important Bathers Way is to our community, providing opportunities for recreation and access to our spectacular coastline,” Clint said.

“This work is essential for the long-term use and enjoyment of this coastal stretch, and it has been scheduled outside the busy summer period to reduce impacts on the community.

“We thank the community for their patience while we complete this important work.”

 IMAGE | Dixon Park beach