Two Newcastle icons have been given a second chance by the city’s council.

After two years of debate, councillors last night voted to spare the Laman Street figs.

The street will now become one-way, although temporary fences are expected to remain at the site for the foreseeable future.

And the old Regal Cinema is poised to re-open its doors, after councillors voted against a recommendation to sell the site.

It follows a $140,000 state grant to carry out capital works on the building.