University Drive, Waratah West, Stormwater improvements and new footbridge

Construction commenced in May 2022, and was completed in September 2023.

Notorious for flooding after heavy rain, the low section of this busy road has seen vehicles including buses get stuck travelling along the University Drive crossing of Boatman Creek.

A 100-year-old brick arch culvert that was restricting the capacity of Boatman Creek and posing a blockage risk has now been replaced with a new sandstone channel. The upstream creek has also been rehabilitated to maximise flow capacity and channel durability.

A new cycleway pedestrian bridge located above the stormwater channel was also constructed as part of the project to maintain access for students and the community.

This upgrade will mean less disruption to traffic on this important road connecting the community with the University and the nearby Mater Hospital by reducing flooding frequency, and it is part of our commitment to address flooding across the city.

Project News

6 Oct 2023 - City of Newcastle delivers flood improvements for University Drive

7 June 2022 - Flood improvements underway in Waratah West

2 July 2021 - Flood improvements coming for University Drive

City of Newcastle acknowledges that we operate on the grounds of the traditional country of the Awabakal and Worimi peoples.
We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and continuing relationship with the land, and that they are the proud survivors of more than two hundred years of dispossession.
CN reiterates its commitment to address disadvantages and attain justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this community.