New shared pathway opens in Belmont South, enhancing community connection

Hunter Water, in collaboration with Lake Macquarie City Council, has completed a new shared pathway on Beach Street in Belmont South, providing safer and improved access for pedestrians and cyclists. The project is part of the community investment alongside the Belmont Desalination Plant and reflects a shared commitment to enhancing local infrastructure and public spaces.

The new pathway links key community areas creating a more accessible and connected environment for residents and a safer route for walking and cycling, particularly during the construction phase of the desalination plant over the next four years.

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, welcomed the new pathway and highlighted the benefits of collaboration between local and state organisations.

“This project is a prime example of how partnerships can create better public spaces and strengthen connectivity for our community.

“We understand how vital safe and accessible transport options are for both residents and visitors, and this pathway will make sure we continue to connect existing networks.

“It's an exciting step forward as we work towards securing a more reliable water supply for the Hunter,” Ms Catley said

Lake Macquarie Mayor, Adam Shultz, is also pleased to see the project completed, recognising the benefits for the local community.

“We’ve listened to the community and taken on board their concerns about impacts on Beach Street and the surrounding community during construction of the desalination plant. That’s why we prioritised this project, delivering major improvements to pedestrians and cyclists travelling between the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track and the Belmont foreshore.

“It’s yet another addition to our growing network of shared paths right across the city,” Mr Shultz said.

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

“When our project team was consulting with the community for the desalination plant, it was identified that the increased traffic on Beach Street could impact residents, and it was suggested a footpath would improve walkability and minimise conflicts with construction traffic.

“Working with Lake Macquarie City Council who recently completed the FAST track along the lake edge, a joint project was established where we were able to provide around $300,000 in funding to support Council in completing the construction of the shared pathway.

“As we progress with the Belmont Desalination Plant, we remain committed to ensuring our projects contribute positively to the local area,” Mr Cleary said.

Now that the shared pathway construction is complete, site establishment of the desalination plant is expected to take place in the coming weeks, signalling Hunter Water’s commitment to ensuring a reliable water supply for the region, now and into the future.

The 30 megalitre per day desalination plant allows for addressing the region's drought risk as quickly as possible, providing a reliable minimum supply of safe drinking water for customers, even in times of drought.