Boom town: The developments set to change the face of Newcastle in 2021

From superstores to lavish hotels, we take a look at the major projects due for completion.

Developers have spent big on projects set to change our landscape - and our lives. Pictures: Supplied.

A pandemic may have slowed us down, but in Newcastle, big development rolls on.

There’s plenty to look forward to in 2021 in the infrastructure space.

And some major projects – from retail to accommodation to office space – have got the town talking.

COSTCO

Due: Mid-2021

An artist’s impression of the $49m Costco development in Lake Macquarie. Picture: Supplied.

At last, Costco is coming.

The bulk buy superstore is expected to open mid-year, having received the tick of approval from the Hunter Regional Planning Panel in December.

The 14,000 square metre warehouse and petrol station make up Costco’s first Hunter store, and its first NSW store outside Sydney.

It’s being built behind Bunnings at Boolaroo, and is expected to create about 250 jobs.

“The potential of this area is incredible and it’s the next significant step in realising the countless benefits for jobs, our local economy, lifestyle and businesses,” Lake Macquarie City mayor Kay Fraser said.

“The $49m Costco development will continue to spur significant growth in Lake Macquarie City.”

KINGSLEY HOTEL

Due: Early 2021

An artist's impression of Kingsley, a five-star hotel planned for Newcastle. Picture: Crystalbrook Collection.

One of Newcastle’s most iconic buildings is getting a major facelift.

The 130-room Kingsley Hotel is set to open in the former City Administration Centre early next year.

The five-star development will keep the shape of the old council headquarters, but seriously turn up the luxe factor.

Designers said the interiors were inspired by the curves and linear rhythm of the circular building, while the colour palette was drawn from the region’s coal mining history.

The hotel will include a rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic views of the city.

THE EAST END

Due: Late 2021

An artist‘s impression of the QT Hotel planned for Newcastle. Picture: QT Hotels.

The development of Newcastle’s East End is set to revitalise that part of the city.

The project will be completed in four stages, and includes luxury apartments and a new retail precinct.

But the feature will be a QT Hotel, set to open in the former David Jones store in Hunter St Mall, late in the year.

“QT Newcastle will be a creative space to stay and play and a hallmark destination for the NSW Government’s Revitalising Newcastle program,” said QT Hotels and Resorts group general manager, Callum Kennedy.

“Transformation of the heritage David Jones building is currently underway, soon to be home to 106 character-filled rooms, a boutique rooftop bar, and an intimate QT signature dining concept and bar – all of which will reflect QT’s popular luxurious and quirky flair.”

THE STORE

Due: March 2021

An artist’s impression of the redevelopment of the former The Store site in Newcastle West. Picture: Doma Group.

When you think Newcastle’s West End, you think The Store.

But the dilapidated former shop building is looking very different these days, thanks to a $200m development.

A 12-storey office building being constructed on the site will be finished in March, and home to 450 State Government workers from the following month.

The project also includes two 30-storey apartment blocks, a 678-space car park and bus interchange.

The Store, or the Newcastle and Suburban Co-operative Society, was established in 1898, with the Newcastle West building opened in 1906.