News

Boutique Accommodation and Event Hub Plans for Maitland Gaol Progress

today30 September 2024

Background

Maitland City Council is pushing forward with its ambitious redevelopment of the historic Maitland Gaol, with two significant development applications lodged to expand the site’s tourism and heritage offerings.

The dual applications cover the creation of boutique accommodation within the former gatehouse, alongside proposals for a new entryway and activity hub, restaurant, event spaces, and additional parking. The move is part of a broader plan to breathe new life into the iconic heritage site, transforming it into a vibrant destination for locals and visitors.

Maitland Gaol, which closed to the public earlier this year due to fire and electrical safety concerns, is set to receive $10.5 million in funding from the New South Wales and Australian governments for its redevelopment. Maitland City Council has also committed $1.2 million to the project.

Council General Manager, Jeff Smith, confirmed that while no immediate redevelopment work would begin, the lodgement of the applications represents an important step in securing approvals for future projects at the site. “We are continuing to work towards making Maitland Gaol a key destination in the Hunter region, with a focus on heritage preservation and enhanced visitor experiences,” he said.

Smith also noted that the long-term goal for the site includes adaptive reuse and wider visitation, with detailed plans for safety upgrades to be presented to the newly elected council by the end of the year. Discussions with the NSW Government about securing additional funding for safety repairs are ongoing.

The redevelopment project forms part of Maitland’s broader strategy to boost tourism, with the enhanced offerings at the gaol expected to attract a diverse range of visitors. For more details, residents and tourists can visit the council’s dedicated redevelopment page at mait.city/GaolRedevelopment.

The Maitland Gaol, steeped in history, remains a significant cultural asset for the region, with its future now set to offer even more to those who visit.

Written by: Newy Staff


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