Phil Miles, Port Stephens Council’s capital works section manager, said construction on the extension in the Nelson Bay CBD was paused to ensure crucial tourism economy was not impacted by works.

“The decision to delay commencement of the construction phase has provided local businesses with the opportunity to trade through the Christmas and New Year period without disruption or negative impact from the work site,” he said.

The Yacaaba Street extension involves extending the road from Yacaaba Street, through 106 and 108 Magnus Street, to join to the existing roundabout on Victoria Parade.

The building in Magnus Street, previously home to a Korean restaurant for tourists and the Tomaree Business Chamber, was demolished on September 26 to make way for the extension.

The extension of Yacaaba Street is designed to open up the Nelson Bay town centre to the waterfront.

The project has long been proposed as a means of revitalising the CBD.

Advocacy group Nelson Bay NOW, formed in August 2016, brought renewed focus to the project.

They believe the Yacaaba Street extension will lure more tourists into the CBD, from d’Albora Marina, because of the visual link and pedestrian thoroughfare.

It is a vision the council also has for the extension.

“With better visibility and accessibility between the CBD and the foreshore, as well as a fresh new space for people to enjoy, we expect the Yacaaba Street extension will drive visitation to the precinct and boost the local economy,” Mr Miles said.

The preliminary works expected to begin next week will include the relocation of electrical services, which Mr Miles said would have “minimal impact on locals and visitors”.

“The next stage will involve major civil works and is set to start in February. This will include the construction of the road extension and landscaping.”

Photos, videos | Watch the Magnus Street building come down to make way for the Yacaaba Street extension

NOW for some CBD vibrancy 

Waterfront connection delay was unavoidable