Towering cranes, dusty worksites, bone-like scaffolding and annoying detours….Newcastle’s a construction zone. And with strong government and private investment it looks set to continue. But it’s not just Newcastle CBD and West End that are experiencing major development, projects in Lake Macquarie and the Hunter are also taking shape.

In this article, I’ll give you a quick update on some of the key local civil and building projects that are underway or kicking off soon.

 

Singleton Bypass

Project type: civil, road upgrade

Project estimated cost: $90 million

Summary:  involves building a new section of the highway west of Singleton. The new road aims to improve travel times and safety for freight and general traffic along the New England Highway through to Singleton.

Timing: Tenders closed in March 2017. The project will be awarded soon.

 

Hunter Street Mall Redevelopment

Project type: construction and civil

Project estimated cost: $220 million

Summary: major project to revitalise Newcastle’s iconic Hunter Street Mall. This will include the construction of new multi-storey structures and retention and reuse of heritage facades including the David Jones building. The developers intend to mix residential, niche retail and niche commercial spaces in what will be a landmark project.

Timing: Iris Capital, the company managing the development are currently undertaking risk mitigation works before tabling designs.

 

Newcastle Light Rail Project

Project type: civil

Project estimated cost: $420 million

Summary: part of the Revitalising Newcastle Project sponsored by the NSW Government, the light rail project will provide regular and reliable light rail links to the key activity hubs. 2.7 kilometres of track will be built, running from Newcastle Interchange at Wickham to Pacific Park, just 200 metres from Newcastle Beach. Downer EDI is the contractor engaged to complete the design and build.

Timing: Construction commenced on Hunter Street, between Auckland and Darby streets, with light rail services set to be in operation by early 2019.

 

Newcastle Bus Interchange (redevelopment of ‘the Store’ site)

Project type: building and construction

Summary: situated in the heart of the new transport interchange, former Newcastle Co-Operative Store (‘the Store’) site in Newcastle West will become a key transport and employment hub. This site will house the Newcastle bus and coach interchange and support the shift of the CBD towards Newcastle’s west end.

Timing: construction is expected to commence from late 2017

 

The Millhorn, Wickham

Project type: building, construction

Project estimated cost: $22 million

Summary: this 8 storey building in Wickham will contain 40 boutique residential apartments and 2 commercial spaces. To be constructed by GWH Build, the contemporary high rise will be among a number of developments to be erected between the Newcastle transport interchange and Throsby Street.

Timing: construction in progress, completion due June 2018

 

Newcastle Central Child Care

Project type: building construction

Summary: Core Project Group has developed a master plan concept to develop an innovative 3 level child care facility in Hunter Street, Newcastle West. To be constructed on a 1000sqm urban infill site, the facility will incorporate a unique central void to capture natural light and provide a private outdoor area. The new centre will provide much needed space for 161 children and is another project that will contribute to the transformation of Newcastle’s west end.

Timing: currently under construction with completion due mid 2018.  

 

New Maitland Hospital

Project type: building construction

Project estimated cost: $450 million

Summary: the NSW Government will soon begin the tender process to build the new Maitland hospital. A 40ha Crown Land site at Metford, on the eastern side of Metford Road was selected as the preferred development site given its proximity to transport and the expected population growth in the area. The hospital will provide better care options for patients, closer to home.

Timing: in planning stage

 

Lake Macquarie Fair and Mount Hutton Plaza redevelopment

Project type: building construction

Project estimated cost: $58 million

Summary: Lake Macquarie City Council recently approved a development application for the redevelopment and integration of Lake Macquarie Fair and Mount Hutton Plaza. Work has begun on site to provide 23,763 square metres of retail, entertainment, leisure and community space.  The new shopping complex and precinct will provide a revitalised centre for the local community to enjoy.

Timing: In progress, completion due by the end of 2018.

 

For more on the latest projects around town and potential job opportunities, give me a call on 0402 772 072 or email [email protected]