Newcastle will be the first city in Australia with a wire free light rail system. 

Wire free light rail system will remove the “spider-web” of overhead wires to preserve the city’s heritage and provide more public open space.

“This is a game changer for the urban amenity and sustainability of Newcastle light rail, which has been the impetus for the complete revitalisation of the city,” Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said. 

He added that the Newcastle light rail vehicles will include board energy storage to remove the overhead wires. 

“Implementing world class light rail technology aligns with our plans for Newcastle to become a major university town and a city known for cutting-edge research and innovation,” Mr Constance said. 

“Removing the overhead wires will preserve the aesthetics of Newcastle’s heritage architecture and its unique character as light rail breathes new life into the city centre,” he added. 

This has resulted from the collaboration between the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure and Minister for Planning. 

Minister for Planning Anthony Roberts said the upgrade will allow more open space for outdoor dining and street trees as well as connecting light rail customer with activity precincts. 

“We’re improving the experience of being in and moving around this great city,” Mr Roberts said.