Hunter Water, in partnership with Lake Macquarie City Council, has completed a new shared pathway on Beach Street, Belmont South, providing a safer and more accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists.

The project is part of community investment linked to the Belmont Desalination Plant and reflects a commitment to enhancing local infrastructure and public spaces. The pathway connects key community areas, offering improved walkability and cyclist safety, particularly during the four-year construction phase of the desalination plant.

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, said the project highlights the benefits of partnerships between local and state organisations.

“This project is a prime example of how collaboration can create better public spaces and strengthen community connectivity,” Yasmin said.

“We understand how vital safe and accessible transport options are for both residents and visitors, and this pathway will help connect existing networks.”

Lake Macquarie Mayor, Adam Shultz, said the pathway responds to community concerns about the impact of construction traffic on Beach Street.

“We’ve listened to the community and prioritised this project to deliver safer pedestrian and cyclist access between the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track and the Belmont foreshore,” Adam said.

“It’s yet another addition to our growing network of shared paths across the city.”

Hunter Water Managing Director, Darren Cleary, said the pathway aligns with broader efforts to support safe work, sustainability, and community well-being.

“When consulting with the community for the desalination plant, we identified that increased traffic on Beach Street could impact residents,” Darren said.

“A footpath was suggested to improve walkability and minimise conflicts with construction traffic.

“Working with Lake Macquarie City Council, which recently completed the FAST track along the lake edge, we provided $300,000 in funding to help complete the construction of the shared pathway.”

With the shared pathway now complete, site establishment for the desalination plant is expected to begin in the coming weeks.

IMAGE | Hunter Water Managing Director, Darren Cleary and Lake Macquarie Mayor, Adam Shultz