THIS is the first look at Newcastle’s cruise terminal design.
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The state government and Port of Newcastle unveiled the plans on Monday, revealing a 3000 square metre venue that would include coach parking and vessel provisioning.
Port chief executive Geoff Crowe said the terminal would offer a professional transit experience for the increasingly frequent cruise ship visits, adding to a positive impression of the city.
“[The design] reflects Newcastle’s position as a world-class cruise ship destination,” he said.
“The traveller experience is central to GHD Woodhead’s design, with harbour views, ease of movement, natural daylight and a generous sense of spacing greeting passengers.”
Earmarked for the Channel berth, the terminal will allow for more and larger cruise ship visitors.
“Importantly, it will position Newcastle as a home port where ships can start and finish their destination in Newcastle,” Mr Crowe said.
“Eventually cruise visits could also be aligned with major events, such as the V8 Supercars, adding another dimension to the visitor and tourism experience.”
The announcement comes a day after the maiden Newcastle 500, dovetailing with the race and terminal being announced on the same day in September last year.
Cruise ships’ contribution to the city’s economy is estimated at about $11 million annually.
Parliamentary secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald said the terminal would be a “big win” for the region.
“It cements the city as an international cruise destination and will deliver flow on benefit to the region’s already thriving tourism industry,” Mr MacDonald said.
“Additionally, it complements the increased capacity of Newcastle Airport.”
Construction is expected to begin early next year after a principal contractor is chosen, with completion slated before 2019.
“Novocastrians will have a cruise terminal to call their own by the end of next year,” Mr Crowe said.
Early 2019 will also draw the Explorer of the Seas to the city, when it will become the largest to visit the port.
The $12.7 million Newcastle Cruise Terminal is funded by the NSW Government’s Restart NSW Hunter Infrastructure Investment Fund.