The 'C' in CBD is a bit of a misnomer in Newcastle. For those of you not familiar with the geography, a little background. The CBD is at the pointy end of a peninsula. 'Central' it is not. It is sided on the south by the Pacific Ocean, with surf beaches and rugged cliff faces and on the north side by the Hunter River, with its busy coal port and former BHP steelworks. The suburbs of Newcastle radiate out to the west. Nobby's Beach and breakwall stretch out from the historic East End like a pointing finger.
Over the last few decades the CBD has been dying a slow death and its geography is only one of the many contributing factors. The good fortunes of many industries have moved on. Urban sprawl has supported our obsession for cocooning and modern conveniences such as the shopping centre. The fractured local council is paralysed by infighting and displays an awesome lack of gutsy, smart leadership. With Newcastle viewed by the State government as a 'safe-as-houses' Labour seat, they illustrate a world-class example of contempt for their electorate and an extreme lack of foresight, accountability and ingenuity. Various community groups with their passioned interest in improving the city are unable to convince the majority of their agenda. Naysayers get more airtime than those actually trying to make a difference.
As so the city continues to grow weak. Just like limbs devoid of activity, the streets, buildings and businesses have become atrophic and are in decay. Newcastle desperately needs a shock to the heart to get the blood flowing once more.
Change won't come quick; a big shopping centre isn't a long term solution to providing a vibrant CBD.
Small changes to Newcastle's diet and lifestyle will be what makes the difference. Old habits die hard, but changes that are underpinned by unique ideas, independence, creativity and discipline will inspire others to make the change too. Ideas like Renew Newcastle and clever, creative people taking a punt on a business idea.
Small changes over a long period of time will ensure that old friends and relatives who come and visit will be able to say 'You look great! Have you lost weight? Had a hair cut?'.
Newcastle's CBD has incredible history, architecture and people . It has a future full of promise. Now is the time to start exercising intent.
Change won't come quick; a big shopping centre isn't a long term solution to providing a vibrant CBD.
Small changes to Newcastle's diet and lifestyle will be what makes the difference. Old habits die hard, but changes that are underpinned by unique ideas, independence, creativity and discipline will inspire others to make the change too. Ideas like Renew Newcastle and clever, creative people taking a punt on a business idea.
Small changes over a long period of time will ensure that old friends and relatives who come and visit will be able to say 'You look great! Have you lost weight? Had a hair cut?'.
Newcastle's CBD has incredible history, architecture and people . It has a future full of promise. Now is the time to start exercising intent.
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