Supercars has issued a final track layout for the Coates Hire Newcastle 500 while announcing the new event will run from November 24-26 next year.
Locked in as the replacement for the Sydney Olympic Park event which ran from 2009, the Newcastle circuit has been revised but will continue to run through the East End which has triggered unrest from local residents.
In its final revision, the 2.6km circuit runs through Watt St, Shortland Esplanade, Zara St and Parnell Place but now avoids Pacific Park.
While buoyed by data which suggests the event will pump a significant amount into the local economy, the race continues to trigger criticism from residents.
The city’s Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said her council and Supercars are undertaking comprehensive community engagement to get the best outcome for residents while ensuring a decent circuit for racing.
“Supercars has adjusted the design of the circuit to minimise disruption while still capturing everything that is spectacular about Newcastle including its famous coastline, Cr Nelmes said.
“We know locals are excited about Supercars coming to Newcastle and we want to ensure this event is an outstanding success.
“With the date and track now locked in we can look forward to planning the next 11 months before the Supercars take to the streets showcasing Newcastle on a global stage.”
Community information meetings have been planned in order to convey how and when the planning process of the construction of the precinct will flow.
These will be held at Crowne Plaza, Newcastle, today between 4.30pm and 8.30pm and tomorrow from 8am to 12pm.
Upgrades to roads are scheduled to start in February while construction on pedestrian overpasses and associated circuit infrastructure will begin six weeks ahead of the event.
VIDEO: Newcastle circuit
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