newy.com.au – Almost 200 homes, along with new shops and services, could be developed in central Medowie after Port Stephens Council endorsed the rezoning of a 7.7-hectare site.
The planning proposal covers 46 to 54 Ferodale Road and 754 Medowie Road, changing land currently designated for rural use to allow medium-density housing and local commercial development.
Council estimates the site could accommodate 194 homes, supporting its Local Housing Strategy and the broader Medowie Place Plan, which guides future development and community priorities as the town grows.
The proposal sets new land-use zones, minimum lot sizes and building-height controls, but does not approve any specific development. Detailed designs would still need to be lodged and assessed through the development application process before construction could begin.
The site is close to Medowie’s existing shops, schools and services, as well as major employment centres including Newcastle Airport, RAAF Base Williamtown and the Tomago industrial area. Council says smaller lots and medium-density housing would provide options for a broader range of households.
Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said the proposal would increase housing supply while delivering social, economic and environmental benefits.
“By supporting this proposal, Council is proactively meeting the needs of our fast-growing community and increasing land supply when it is needed most,” Mayor Anderson said.
“This decision delivers smaller lot sizes and more affordable housing choices close to schools, essential services and major employment hubs. It will boost our local economy through new jobs and business opportunities while crucially protecting the environment by permanently preserving natural green corridors and waterways,” Mayor Anderson added.
Part of the site containing a local waterway and environmentally significant land will be rezoned C2 Environmental Conservation. Council says the zoning will protect native vegetation and maintain corridors through which wildlife can move.
The final proposal was also changed in response to feedback received during public exhibition and submissions from state government agencies. Developers will be required to prepare detailed Vegetation Management Plans covering the restoration and ongoing maintenance of the green corridors.
Council says the revised plan avoids flood-prone land and seeks better drainage outcomes across the site.
