Council obtained $9.92 million for work on Stage two under the Restart NSW Resources for Regions funding program.

Part of the scope of works includes laneway improvements to Drill Hall and Preschool lanes at the eastern end of High Street near St Peter’s school.

A construction contractor is being appointed to undertake laneway improvement works in Drill Hall Lane. The works include drainage, pavement rehabilitation, lighting and improved connections to adjacent properties.

The estimated cost for the laneway work is $99,000. Private works with an estimated cost of $7200 include construction of a short concrete footpath and a ramp to a car park in Drill Hall Lane and asphalt connection to a small gravel car park. Stage Two of The Levee works is worth about $10 million.

It also involves the demolition of some buildings to make way for the Riverlink Building, which will allow pedestrians to walk easily between the banks of the Hunter River and the retail and dining precinct. The Riverlink building will feature public amenities and has space for a café/wine bar. Outdoor and first floor dining areas are also expected to be part of the facility.

Stage one of The Levee had been heavily criticised by some mall traders who endured more than a year of their ­businesses being in a major construction zone.