ONE of Lake Macquarie's busiest pedestrian malls will receive a $2.8 million upgrade, with works due to start next week.
Charlestown's Pearson Street mall will be redeveloped as part of the project, which is designed to open the area up for events, markets, music and food trucks.
"The mall is a gateway to our city's largest retail precinct," Cr Fraser said.
"The modernisation of this area will reinvent the space, transforming it into a hub for the Charlestown community".
"This is an exciting project for our city and I look forward to seeing this area re-energised and re-purposed."
Works will also include environmental sensors, wifi and smart bins as well as new custom-made street furniture, lighting, landscaping and an upgrade to the Ridley Street intersection.
Lake Macquarie City Council's manager assets management Brendan Callander said the improvements would make the area safer for pedestrians.
"As part of the works, we will be replacing the existing pavement, reducing trip hazards and providing safer access through the mall," Mr Callander said.
"We'll also be replacing trees in the mall with mature specimens more suited to the local environment and less likely to cause root damage."
The council said the project, due for completion in early 2021, will complement GPT's upgrade to Charlestown Square's neighbouring north piazza, The Corner.
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