Call for tenders to design next stage of Bathers Way project

City of Newcastle is calling for tenders to complete the design of a key link in the city's iconic coastal walkway.

The project will transform the section of Bathers Way between Strzelecki Lookout and South Newcastle Beach, creating a more accessible shared path through the heritage-listed King Edward Park.

It will include renewal of King Edward Park's amenities building and will seek to improve the connection between the lawn around the iconic Victorian rotunda, and the popular sunken Garside Gardens, which are known for their colourful flower displays each Spring.

A key feature of the project is the construction of an Indigenous art installation, which will educate path users on the Aboriginal significance of the site, while more comfortable viewing areas with shade and seating will enhance the overall visitor experience.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Bathers Way is a jewel among the city's coastal assets, offering a variety of recreational opportunities.

"The Bathers Way is a flagship project of our coastal revitalisation program, delivering an upgraded shared pathway that links our iconic beaches of Merewether, Dixon Park, Bar Beach, Newcastle and Nobbys," Cr Nelmes said.

"Once all stages are complete, Bathers Way will be a drawcard destination for tourists and locals, offering a continuous path perfect for those who want to walk, run or ride along the 6km-long route, or make use of the viewing platforms and seating options to stop and enjoy the spectacular scenery off our coastline."

Through the current tender process, City of Newcastle will appoint a suitably qualified principal design consultant to build upon an existing concept layout for the King Edward Park section of Bathers Way.

The resulting design will widen and illuminate the current shared path to encourage safer and higher patronage at all times of the day.

Cr Nelmes said community consultation would inform the future design process.

"While King Edward Park is one of the city's most popular open spaces, it is also revered for its unique Aboriginal and European heritage," Cr Nelmes said.

"As such, the successful tender must carefully balance those two considerations to deliver a well resolved design that can be appreciated and utilised by all members of our community."

Tenders will close on 24 January 2023, with concept designs expected to be completed mid next year.