How is the work of the Committee funded and accounted for?

The Committee receives its funds through a Special Benefit Rate that is levied on city centre property owners. Being a Committee of Council means that a service provider needs to be appointed to manage contracts, employ people and implement the Committee’s plans, we are bound by the Newcastle City Council's Code of Conduct. The current service provider is Infinitus Advisory who was appointed following a tender process. Council monitors expenditure and performance of the service provider.

 OUR ACHIEVEMENTS TO DATE

The Newcastle City Centre Committee this year focused its program on its goal to contribute to a city that is vibrant, prosperous and attractive.

• The Committee now has a street-level office to help it engage more closely with the businesses and property owners its represents.
• Over 150 businesses are now actively engaged with the Committee through its cluster groups and the projects they are developing.
• Support for Renew Newcastle continued.
• Funds were committed this year to assist in the Mall re-opening, new bus shelters in City West and a cleanup of the garden at Civic Station. In addition, money has been placed in Reserves to fund projects that are being planned in the Hunter Street Masterplan.
• The Committee has partnered with the Pride of Place program for Graffiti removal, development of murals on blank walls, cleaning and landscape improvements and with the Department of Juvenile Justice to undertake cleaning and painting. A project is now being planned with Railcorp to develop railway station improvements for next year.
• CCTV cameras have been installed and are being trialed while wifi stations have been installed in the city centre.
• Evening entertainment and lighting projects were run in conjunction with L!vesites through the Summer in Town Festival.
• Research projects included a study of the night-time economy and a detailed branding exdercise was undertaken and banners hung through the City Centre.
• The City Guides program continued as did our regular communications programs.
• Committee members and staff have been active in Council workshops and committees.