Swansea seawall will finally be repaired, with the state government confirming $7.5 million will be allocated to the project.
The Belmont Street structure has been closed to the public since 2021 after serious cracking and slope issues made the area unsafe.
Assessments have warned that leaving the damage unaddressed would increase the risk to the foreshore, the shared path and nearby road infrastructure.
It has been a budget wishlist priority for the past three years.
Transport for NSW will fund the works from its annual budget allocation, however, the project will not appear as a line item in this week's state budget.
The investment will support repairs to a 100-metre section of the seawall, stabilise erosion and protect nearby roads, housing and foreshore infrastructure.
It is also intended to restore public access to the nearby shared path.
"This is a fantastic result for the Swansea community. The seawall has been closed for too long. Locals have been patient, but they are right to want it fixed," Minister for the Hunter and Swansea MP Yasmin Catley said.
"The foreshore is a much-loved part of our community, and this $7.5 million investment is an important step toward protecting it for the future.
"I have fought hard for this funding because Swansea deserves better than fences, warning signs and delays."
Construction is expected to begin in late 2026.
Ms Catley said the repair work would prevent broader impacts beyond the immediate damage.
"The advice is clear, the risk here is bigger than one section of the seawall. If it is left as is, it will put pressure on the foreshore, the pathways and the roads. That is why the Minns government is stepping in to get this moving," she said.
Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said the works would help avoid further deterioration and higher repair costs.
"Without this work, the damage to the seawall would continue to get worse, and the cost and complexity of repairs would only increase," she said.
"This funding is an important step in ensuring we can reopen this asset for the community to enjoy once again."
Lake Macquarie mayor Adam Shultz said the council would work with Transport for NSW to deliver the project.
"This section of foreshore has been closed for too long, and we know how important it is to locals," he said.
"We look forward to supporting Transport for NSW in their delivery and getting these important repairs moving."
