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Newcastle Explores Affordable Housing Options for Inner City Site

today14 July 2024

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280 Hunter Street Newcastle Satellite
The City of Newcastle is currently exploring the potential for affordable housing on a piece of land they own on Hunter Street.

This strategically located site, known as Rail Bridge Row, is situated between Hunter Street, and the Foreshore on the former railway land.

City of Newcastle acquired this property from the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation in 2020, envisioning a mixed-use development that could include ground floor retail, affordable housing, and commercial spaces.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes has emphasised that affordable housing is a key consideration in the ongoing discussions about the site’s future.

“With cost of living pressures exacerbating the housing stress being experienced by thousands of Novocastrians, increasing the supply of affordable housing in Newcastle is a key priority,” Cr Nelmes stated.

“As part of our vision for the ongoing revitalisation of the CBD, a mixed-use development on this site could help ease the affordable housing shortage, while supporting investment and creating more jobs in Newcastle.

“We are currently working through various investigations and early design options and will soon commence site assessments for the early works and approvals needed to support future development on the site, along with exploring potential partnership opportunities with Community Housing Providers.”

The 4,125 sqm lot at 280 Hunter Street extends from Brown Street to near the intersection of Darby and Hunter Street, directly opposite the Crown Street light rail stop.

In addition to housing, investigations are considering how the site could enhance the city’s active transport network.

“We’re committed to delivering safe, connected and convenient cycleways across the city,” Cr Nelmes remarked.

“This site could also provide an opportunity to deliver an important east-west commuter cycleway connection, strengthening Newcastle’s cycling infrastructure while enhancing the sustainability and liveability of our city.”

Written by: Newy Staff


Newy 87.8 FM is an FM radio station established in 2014 targeting Classic Hits music enthusiasts across Newcastle and The Central Coast, Australia. The station plays 60s 70s and 80s music. The station can be streamed online via this website or smart phone apps such as Tunein. In 2024 we opened a local newsroom dedicated to publishing Newcastle News.