City of Newcastle (CN) is planning to build more housing near train stations at Hamilton, Adamstown, Kotara and the Newcastle Interchange.
But, it wants residents to play a role, too.
The four areas have been selected by the NSW Government as part of the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) Program, designed to enable greater residential density near key transport hubs.
Executive director planning and environment Michelle Bisson said council wanted to hear from locals about changes, which could help accommodate housing growth in those suburbs.
“We support the intent of the NSW Government reforms,” she explained.
“However, a one-size-fits-all approach does not consider factors such as heritage or environmental constraints.
“So, we’re designing a place-based approach to each precinct.
“We want people to tell us what they love about their local area and what they believe should be prioritised in the future to accommodate more housing.
“That could include improved open public spaces, walking and cycling connections, transport and traffic upgrades, more lighting or the diversity of housing choices.”
Under the National Housing Accord, the NSW Government has committed to delivering 377,000 new homes across the state between 2024 and 2029, with a target of 11,100 for the Newcastle LGA during that period alone.
To help facilitate those goals, it’s introduced a range of planning reforms including the TOD program, which permit mid and high-rise development, including apartments and shop-top housing, by changing development standards such as building heights and floor space ratios.
Councils can then create their own controls for TOD precincts.
Using input from residents, CN will produce an urban design framework for each of the four transport hubs, establishing the overall vision, objectives and actions that will provide guidance to property developers.
“They’ll outline, for property developers and owners, what the area should look and feel like, and how things such as land use, streets, public spaces and buildings should work together, taking into consideration hazards such as flooding, bushfire, contamination and high-pressure gas pipelines,” Ms Bisson said.
Community members can find out more, or make a submission, via the Have Your Say page until 5pm on Friday 12 June.
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