Moves are afoot to transform The Station into a world-class tourism, retail and hospitality precinct in Newcastle.
As part of a 99-year lease, Ashbridge Capital 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 include 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; and boutique short-stay accommodation.
“We’re honoured to be entrusted with The Station’s future,” Ashbridge spokesperson Vishant Narayan said.
“And, we are committed to carefully curating a mix of drawcard attractions with best-in-class operators.
“This will be a comprehensive transformation that enables modern use of the space while preserving and celebrating the building’s wonderful heritage character.
“We look forward to working with the community, City of Newcastle and our stakeholders.”
Works to restore and enhance the structures are expected to begin in 2027 pending approvals.
After they’re completed, The Station’s outdoor spaces will continue to be activated with community and public events such as markets, “live” music, charity functions and family-friendly activities.
“This is fantastic news for the region,” Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said.
“The 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.
“It’ll bring new vibrancy to a landmark destination on the foreshore, too.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully agreed.
“We’re bringing back bold, vibrant cities by enabling great new precincts like this transformative plan for The Station in Newcastle,” he said.
“Projects like this are exciting because they attract innovative activations and put heritage buildings back to the heart of the community.”
Another to praise the concept was Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp.
“The Station is an iconic landmark,” he said.
“This exciting transformation will make it a must-visit destination, providing a new area 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 precinct 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.”
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