The Minns Labor Government is transforming The Station Newcastle into a world class tourism, retail and hospitality precinct in partnership with Ashbridge Capital.
As part of a 99-year lease Ashbridge will further restore the heritage buildings and re-imagine the much-loved city landmark to create a new vibrant must visit destination for shopping, dining and community events.
Initial plans which are subject to approvals will deliver:
- a café, artisanal bakery and specialty fine foods retailers,
- restaurants with outdoor dining options,
- a wine bar and cellar door,
- a ‘gastropub’ focused on regional beers and local produce,
- a new multi-purpose function room on the top floor,
- boutique short-stay accommodation.
Ashbridge will develop a detailed design and seek approval for The Station’s heritage buildings to be refurbished and activated with a carefully selected mix of new uses.
Works to restore and enhance the buildings are expected to commence in 2027 pending approvals.
After the works are completed, The Station’s outdoor spaces will continue to be activated with community and public events such as markets, live music, charity events and family friendly activities, along with new types of events.
For information visit hccdc.nsw.gov.au/station-future
Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said:
“This is fantastic news for the Hunter. This re-development will bring the Station’s beautiful heritage buildings to life as a harbourside destination for dining, shopping and great community events that will draw locals and visitors back again and again.”
“This transformation will create new opportunities for events, dining and cultural experiences, bringing new vibrancy to a landmark destination on the foreshore.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said:
“We’re bringing back bold, vibrant cities by enabling great new precincts like this transformative plan for The Station Newcastle.
“Projects like this are exciting because they bring new activations in our cities and put heritage buildings back to the heart of the community.
“This is another example of the Minns Labor Government working to protect the heritage and cultural value while supporting tourism, jobs and community connection.”
Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:
“The Station is an iconic Newcastle landmark and this exciting transformation will make it a must-visit destination, providing a new space to gather, celebrate and experience a reimagined heritage space.”
“Whether you want to shop, dine or just have a wine or beer with a friend the re-imagined station will have something for everyone.
“We’ve already seen the community embrace The Station as a venue for pop up events and this project will take that activation to another level.”
HCCDC Chief Executive, Valentina Misevska said:
“Since 2018, HCCDC has kept The Station open and thriving, and delivered major landscaping, site enhancements, and a popular program of pop-up events.
“We’re continuing temporary activation throughout 2026 and will work with Ashbridge through the design, planning and approvals process to ensure ongoing activity and a smooth transition to the long-term lease.”
“We look forward to the next phase of The Station’s life including next-level food, beverage and entertainment offerings.”
Ashbridge spokesperson, Vishant Narayan said:
“We are honoured to be entrusted with The Station’s future and are committed to carefully curating a mix of drawcard attractions with best-in-class operators.
“This will be a carefully considered and comprehensive transformation that enables modern use of the space while preserving and celebrating the building’s wonderful heritage character.
“We’re proud to have assembled a leading team, nationally and locally, to bring this vision to life, and look forward to working with the community, Council and our stakeholders.”