The public is being invited to comment on amended planning controls that will help shape the Newcastle city centre and which highlight how transport infrastructure can support urban renewal.

NSW Planning & Infrastructure yesterday released details of the proposed amendments to the Newcastle Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP).

The new planning controls were developed following feedback received during community consultation period on the Newcastle Urban Renewal Strategy in 2013.

Planning and Infrastructure and the City of Newcastle have worked closely with the community, land owners and businesses to develop the vision for urban renewal in the city centre, which is based around the plans for the new light rail link interchange from Wickham to the beach.

The public can Comment on the proposed LEP amendments until 21 March 2014 and on the draft DCP until 4 April 2014.