Newcastle West: $10M commercial development proposed for Hunter St

A prominent Hunter St building, once part of Newcastle’s rich garment-making history, is set for a major transformation.

The current run down 653 Hunter Street, Newcastle West which is set to be transformed with a new development application. Credit: Council papers

It was once a building filled with dressmakers, tailors and even footwear retailers, part of Newcastle’s rich garment-making history.

But for some years, 653 Hunter St in Newcastle’s West has been vacant, left in a run down state.

Now there’s an exciting proposal to demolish the current building and construct a new eight-storey commercial development, worth almost $10 million.

653 Hunter Street, Newcastle West now Credit: Council papers

Artist Impression – development proposal at 653 Hunter Street, Newcastle West. Credit: Space Design Architecture (Council papers)

It will house a cafe and bike store on the ground floor, with a number of commercial units throughout the development, as well as 64 parking spaces.

Although the site is located within the Newcastle City Centre Heritage Conservation Area, it is not listed as a heritage item.

It stands besides two heritage sites being the former Theatre Royale and the Bellevue Hotel and across the road from the Bank Corner.

Artist Impression of the back of the Hunter street proposal. Credit: Space Design Architecture (Council papers)

A heritage assessment noted the “simple nature” of the proposal would maintain the existing rhythm of the streetscape, creating a new landmark that would not interrupt or negatively impact on the surrounding buildings.

The site also has an “excellent” connectivity to public transport with the Newcastle Transport Interchange less than 500 metres, several bus routes located in Hunter St and direct connection through Steel St to the Newcastle Harbour Foreshore.

The development proposal, which will be decided by Newcastle Council, is currently on exhibition until July 12.