![OPEN: Hunter Business Chamber CEO Bob Hawes, lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Port Authority chair Robert Dunn, Hunter operations manager Emma Fensom and Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen. OPEN: Hunter Business Chamber CEO Bob Hawes, lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Port Authority chair Robert Dunn, Hunter operations manager Emma Fensom and Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/max.mckinney/2912336c-1c77-4874-b066-9960f352b77f.jpg/r0_0_4032_3024_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Macquarie Pier has reopened after the completion of the first stage of a $3 million restoration project.
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Public access was restored to the iconic harbourside walkway after a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday morning.
The works, which took four months to complete, included the construction an improved 900-metre pathway with sandstone seating, maritime-style fencing and a paved area at the foot of Nobbys Headland.
"Macquarie Pier gives the community a place to connect with their maritime heritage and appreciate the beauty and importance of the harbour that developed Newcastle into the city it is," Port Authority of NSW CEO Philip Holliday said.
![FRESH: A concept image of the upgraded walkway. FRESH: A concept image of the upgraded walkway.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/max.mckinney/36cc02d6-eaff-4046-9466-127d0ed824da.jpg/r0_0_2362_1181_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Stage two includes the installation of interpretive heritage features along the route.
The walkway will remain open during that time.
The project has been part-funded by a $500,000 grant from the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund and $200,000 from Port of Newcastle.
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Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen, who represented deputy premier John Barilaro at the opening, said the project had invigorated the area.
"I'm delighted to see the reopening of this iconic walkway, which will attract more people to the area and lead to a more enjoyable experience for locals and visitors alike," he said.
"Revitalising Macquarie Pier is exactly what the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund is designed to deliver, and I thank the Port Authority of New South Wales for their commitment to this important project."
![SAFER: An artist's impression of the improved pathway. SAFER: An artist's impression of the improved pathway.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/max.mckinney/15dab3a3-dd3c-4516-a8bc-9edf008b869a.jpg/r0_0_2362_1181_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)