Forty-eight affordable housing units are proposed to be developed on what is the last remaining parcel of land to be developed of the former heavy rail line into Newcastle.
Councillors voted last night to endorse the proposal by specialist community housing provider Home in Place following a rigorous two-stage selection supported by independent probity oversight.
An artist’s impression of the proposed affordable housing project at Rail Bridge Row.
City of Newcastle Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Bath said the appointment of a not-for-profit, community-focused provider marks a pivotal step forward to help address the city’s housing crisis.
“Home in Place has demonstrated the capability, experience and vision needed to bring this project to life,” Mr Bath said.
“Their strong financial foundations and proven success in delivering affordable housing gave us great confidence in selecting them to partner with us on this landmark project, which is the first of its kind in the Hunter.”
The 4,125 sqm lot at 280 Hunter Street, known as Rail Bridge Row, stretches from Brown Street to near the intersection of Darby and Hunter Street and is opposite the Crown Street light rail stop.
It was purchased by City of Newcastle from Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation in 2020 and is the final piece of the former heavy rail corridor to be redeveloped.
Home in Place’s concept design proposes the delivery of 48 units in a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments above a ground floor commercial development, supported by 37 car spaces for residents and retail tenants.
The proposal also includes a new laneway connecting Argyle Lane with Wharf Road and a cycleway link to Market Street for bicycle riders.
Chair of City of Newcastle’s Asset Advisory Committee, Cr Declan Clausen, said the selection of Home in Place follows a detailed and competitive process.
“This appointment comes after a thorough assessment of proposals from across the sector,” Cr Clausen said.
“Through the competitive procurement process, Home in Place demonstrated capability and experience, with a strong local track record of delivering high-quality, well-located homes for people who need them most.
“Their proposal gives us confidence that Rail Bridge Row will progress with momentum and deliver meaningful outcomes for our community.
“In addition to City of Newcastle’s substantial direct and in-kind contributions, this exciting project will be well placed to pursue additional funding opportunities, including through the Housing Australia Future Fund when applications open in early 2026.”
The appointment follows extensive geotechnical, environmental and cultural heritage investigations conducted on the Hunter Street site.
A Development Application currently under assessment seeks approval for mine investigation and remediation works beneath the site.
Subject to approval, grout-based remediation targeting historic workings is expected to begin in 2026. These works are essential to stabilise the site prior to future construction.
Home in Place Group Chief Executive Officer Lyndall Robertshaw welcomed the opportunity to partner with City of Newcastle on a strategically located, community-focused housing project.
“We are proud to be working with the City of Newcastle to increase affordable housing in Newcastle. Each new home means more people will have the chance to live in safe, secure and affordable housing, and that is at the very heart of what we do,” Ms Robertshaw said.
“Access to affordable housing is vital for building a thriving city. Projects such as Rail Bridge Row demonstrate the dedication of Home in Place and the City of Newcastle to providing affordable homes near essential facilities, services, infrastructure, schools and employment opportunities.
“With affordability in the private market continuing to deteriorate, affordable housing projects like this one are crucial.
“To be working in partnership with the City of Newcastle on a major project in the same area where our story began four decades ago reflects how deeply connected, we remain to our local roots and to the ongoing need for safe, affordable housing.”
Rail Bridge Row forms part of City of Newcastle’s long-term plan to support a growing, diverse and inclusive community as Newcastle prepares for a population increase of more than 40,000 people by 2041.
More information is available at newcastle.nsw.gov.au/rail-bridge-row.