There’s a number of developments being planned or under construction in Newcastle, which will change the face of the city, along with where people live/work and play.
The Newcastle Apartment market is not as buoyant as it was in late 2017, however, it’s still one of the most exciting markets in Australia for a variety of reasons – relatively affordable pricing, amazing and improving amenity, solid rental yields, new transport links, and job growth. With the election now over, I see that interest in the market will be restored and growth will be spurned. Compared to Sydney and the other capital cities, the amount of stock available is minimal and some of the product is phenomenal for the money.
East End by Iris Capital
What is it – Multi stage mixed-use development on the Hunter St mall site by developer Iris Capital. Up to 550 apartments and c. 15,000sqm of retail. Hunter Street mall is a difficult site and has had a long history of problems and owners.
What’s the big deal? The scale of this project is huge for Newcastle and a testament to the owner’s vision and investment in the City.
I’m looking forward to the improved retail, dining and leisure precinct in the traditional heart of the city, especially the coming of the QT brand to Newcastle.
SKY Residences by GWH Build
What is it – Residential towers fronting King and Hunter streets. The building has resort facilities for residents which are rare for Sydney and not seen in Newcastle, including a large outdoor pool on the podium and a terrace overlooking the harbour on the top floor. The development is close to the new Civic light rail stop, Newcastle Uni NeW Space and Market town shopping precinct. Apartment options from 1 bedroom through to 4 bedroom Sky homes.
What’s the big deal? See above. GWH Build has a unique offering in the market with their vertical integration – not only are they builder and developer on this project, but they also own the quarry, make the concrete, cast the precast, fire the steel, make the windows and doors, install the precast/steel/windows and doors. This gives a level of control over the development process that few builders/developers have and thus an ability to deliver on or before time.
I’m looking forward to seeing how this changes the way people live in the city – being close to so much means that people might legitimately be able to get rid of a vehicle and be able to walk to work/uni/beach/entertainment. Hopefully, I have friends move in so I can experience the pool and the Sky lounge!
Stella and Eaton by Thirdi Group
What is it – Residential towers in Wickham, totalling close to 300 apartments. The sites on Union and Hannell Street abound the Thirdi Westend development, along with the Millhorn and Bishopsgate developments.
What’s the big deal? Wickham is the new western heart of the city, along with it’s Newcastle West neighbour. These developments are adjacent to the Newcastle interchange where you can hop on the train to Sydney or the light-rail to the East End and all that it offers (beaches, retail, dining, etc). Wickham has something special about it and it’s set to continue to improve once commercial and retail offerings complete. Eaton and Union each have great low-maintenance resident facilities – such as gyms and roof/podium gardens. The apartments have smart home technology and the buildings are designed for efficiency and to take advantage of the Harbour view.
I’m looking forward to watching these towers go up – my office is right next door!
Other Residential developments
Highpoint Charlestown by GWH Build
NBN Site – The Hill by Stronach Property
Bowline Wickham by Multipart Property
Huntington / Lume by Doma Group
Commercial developments
Darby Street Plaza by GWH Build
The Store by Doma Group
