State Government Unveils Newcastle's New Cruise Terminal Design

The design for Newcastle's new cruise terminal has been revealed by the Port of Newcastle and the state government on Monday.

The purpose-built facility, designed by GHD Woodhead, will cover approximately 3,000sq m include facilities for passengers, coach parking and vessel provisioning.

The $12.7 million Newcastle Cruise Terminal is funded by the NSW Government's Restart NSW Hunter Infrastructure Investment Fund.

Former NSW premier Mike Baird set aside $13 million in government funds for a dedicated cruise terminal in 2016.

Port of Newcastle chief executive, Geoff Crowe, said the Newcastle Cruise Terminal would provide a professional transit experience for passengers arriving in Newcastle and a positive first impression of the city.

"We are excited to share the concept design for the Newcastle Cruise Terminal which reflects Newcastle's position as a world-class cruise ship destination,” Crowe said.

"The new cruise terminal, to be built at the Channel Berth, will enable the Port to receive more and larger cruise ships in the future. [Eventually] cruise visits could also be aligned with major events, such as the V8 Supercars, adding another dimension to the visitor and tourism experience.”

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The NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Planning, the Central Coast and the Hunter, Scot MacDonald, said the Newcastle Cruise Terminal would be a major boost for the Hunter's tourism sector.

He said the Hunter Research Foundation has estimated the terminal projects will contribute around $26.7 million to the local economy and an additional 76 jobs through construction and flow-on effects.

The principal contractor will be appointed in early 2018. Construction will commence in early 2018 and should be completed before 2019.