Wyee Set for Major Transformation as Council Greenlights Growth Plan

10 February 2025

newy.com.au – Wyee is set for a major transformation, with Lake Macquarie Council approving key planning changes set to revitalise the town’s centre. The decision, made during a council meeting this evening, paves the way for increased commercial and residential development, aligning Wyee with other growing regional hubs in New South Wales.

A standout element of the approved planning proposal is the expansion of the town centre’s development potential, with building height limits set to increase to 15 metres and minimum lot size requirements scrapped. These changes are designed to boost business activity, improve local amenities, and accommodate the area’s growing population.

“Recent population growth in Wyee has increased the demand for local centre services and facilities, and this demand is expected to continue with future growth,” said Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz. “Rezoning the sites to E1 Local Centre will pave the way for local businesses, services, and facilities to thrive, which means more jobs for locals. This will support the growing community with shops, a supermarket, food and drink venues, medical facilities, childcare, and office spaces.”

The council’s decision comes at a time when the NSW Government is ramping up efforts to address housing demand in regional areas. As part of its broader Housing Growth Plan, the state has earmarked investment to encourage residential development and upgrade essential infrastructure. While finer details remain under wraps, sources suggest that Wyee is a priority area within the broader Lake Macquarie growth strategy.

A planning insider noted that these state-level initiatives would complement local council efforts: “By addressing both commercial and residential needs, we’re looking at a more sustainable growth model that benefits the entire community.”

In addition to the town centre overhaul, councillors approved $6,000 in grants for three local organisations, with the Australian Air League NSW Belmont Squadron, the Heartland Foundation, and the Quirky Quilters each receiving $2,000. “We’re passionate about supporting local organisations that make a big difference in our community,” Mayor Shultz said.

Further bolstering the council’s commitment to high-quality development, Naomi Rucker has been nominated to serve a three-year term on the Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel. Additionally, architect Dr Philip Pollard has been appointed as chair of the newly established Design Review Panel, which will provide expert oversight of residential apartment projects, ensuring strong urban design, landscape integration, and architectural excellence.

Infrastructure upgrades were also on the agenda, with councillors approving the acquisition of part of 300 and 310 Warners Bay Road at Mount Hutton for use as a public road, a move aimed at improving local connectivity.