As we enter the final quarter of 2019, development and construction continue to thrive in Newcastle and the Hunter, with lots of projects currently underway and more set to kick off in 2020/2021. In the coming months, we should see a particular increase in construction within the commercial, health and infrastructure sectors.
For a snapshot of the current construction market, let’s take a brief look at some of the projects that are currently underway, as well as those that are due to commence soon.
Projects underway
East End development, Newcastle
If you’ve visited Newcastle’s East End or Hunter Street Mall anytime in the past 12 months, you will no doubt have noticed some big-time demolition and construction happening. Iris Capital’s East End development spans across five buildings up to 11 storeys high, encompassing apartments, a boutique hotel and retail spaces.
The Store, Newcastle
In 2018, the Doma Group were selected to undertake the $200 million redevelopment of The Store, an iconic site on Newcastle’s Hunter Street. The project, which includes two 90-metre residential towers, office space and retail offerings, is due for completion in March 2020.
Maitland Hospital redevelopment
Perhaps the biggest development in progress in the Maitland area is the new Maitland Hospital: a $470 million project designed to meet the growing healthcare needs of Hunter Valley residents. Located on a 17-hectare site at Metford, the project commenced initial onsite works early this year, and is due for completion in early 2022.
Bennetts Green Retail and Commercial Centre
Works have commenced on the Spotlight Property Group’s $100 million retail development at Bennetts Green. Due to open in late 2020, the 30,000 square-metre precinct will include Spotlight, Bunnings, Anaconda and Nick Scali stores, a McDonald’s restaurant and a BP service station.
School projects
School developments continue to thrive throughout the region, such as Catherine McAuley Catholic College, approved in August this year. Located at Medowie, the brand-new education facility will be completed in six stages over eight years. Stage 1, which includes an administration block, library, chapel and early education centre among other buildings, is currently under construction.
Projects due to commence
Little National Hotel, Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle Drive is set to become home to NSW’s first Little National Hotel. Comprising 152 rooms and 60 luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, the $41 million project is due for completion in 2021.
The Foundry, Adamstown
Brunker Road will soon be home to three new residential apartment towers, with the 84-unit Foundry development approved earlier this year. Despite initial contention between developers and residents, the project is proceeding after receiving full council approval.
Darby Plaza, Newcastle
Council has also given the green light for construction on the new Darby Plaza development to commence in early 2020. This $19 million project from builder/developer GWH encompasses an eight-storey office and commercial building near the junction of Hunter and Darby Streets.
Nihon University Newcastle Campus
The former Newcastle Courthouse on Church Street is set to become the new home for Nihon University’s first international campus. The Japanese institution’s $36 million development will commence construction in 2021, with two four-storey buildings including student accommodation.
John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct
The NSW Government recently revealed its Master Plan for the new John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct, which includes $780 million of investment in updated and enhanced health facilities. Stage one will involve significant expansion of the John Hunter Hospital.
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These are just a few of the current projects in the works for the Newcastle and Hunter areas. Continued investment and planning to develop the Williamtown Airport Precinct and Broadmeadow Sports and Entertainment Precinct also looks promising for the region. And further developments are a sure thing as we move towards 2020 and beyond – meaning our local communities, economies and employment opportunities will all be flourishing!
Wondering what jobs are currently available in Newcastle’s booming construction market? Meghan’s specialty is helping construction, manufacturing and supply chain professionals find their perfect role.
Give her a call on 0408 739 238 if you’d like to chat, or shoot her an email at [email protected].
