Newcastle seeks affordable housing developer for Empire Hotel site

Jennifer DukeDecember 7, 2020

The New South Wales government, along with the City of Newcastle council, have launched an expression of interest campaign for the redevelopment of the Empire Hotel site, on Hunter Street West.

Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Planning, Craig Baumann, said that the NSW government has committed over $580 million to the renewal of Newcastle. These funds included a courthouse, University city campus and proposed lease of the Port.

“This affordable housing project is possible because the property industry is prepared to invest in the Newcastle CBD and be part of that NSW Government backed revitalisation,” said Baumann.

Newcastle’s Lord Mayor Jeff McCloy said that the Council’s contribution would amount to $2.9 million from the Building Better Cities trust fund. This fund is for the supply of affordable housing.

“This project will not only help to transform a previously run-down site in Hunter Street, it will also bring people into the city centre, helping to activate it,’’ McCloy said.

“The 2,000 square metre site’s zoning allows residential, commercial, hotel or mixed-use development, making it an attractive development opportunity.”

Those who wish to develop the site are encouraged to express interest, up until the 10 January 2014. Contract exchange should happen early next year.

A minimum of 17 studios or one-bedroom units will be required, with the number of two-bedroom dwellings to undergo discussion during negotiation phase.

Jennifer Duke

Jennifer Duke was a property writer at Property Observer

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