A masterplan for Newcastle Quay has been revealed, marking the final stage in Newcastle’s three-decade foreshore transformation, with the precinct set to deliver approximately 1,000 homes alongside mixed-use development.
According to a communique, SJB worked closely with delivery partner the DOMA Group to “establish a clear urban framework for the foreshore and its long-term evolution.” SJB is the masterplan and executive architect of the project, while building concepts were developed in collaboration with Stewart Architecture, Architecture AND and Curious Practice, with landscape design in collaboration with Turf Design Studio and planning by SJB Planning.
Alongside approximately 1,000 homes, the $1.6 billion precinct is set to deliver more than 11,000 square metres of public open space – comprising plazas, waterfront promenades and green space – more than 28,000 square metres of commercial space, 6,000 square metres of retail offerings, a 180-room hotel, and a 500-seat conference and exhibition centre integrated with the heritage-listed Wickham School of Arts.
A statement from SJB notes that the masterplan prioritises public life and connectivity through a fine-grain network of streets, laneways and public spaces intended to reconnect the site to the city and improve public access to the waterfront. The communique adds that the plan proposes a new waterfront park known as Honeysuckle Green and the Tree of Knowledge Park, both of which aim to encourage public activity along the harbour.
Partner at SJB Emily Wombwell said the project represents a shift in how the city engages with its harbour. “It moves the waterfront from the edge of the city to its centre – creating a place that is open, active and part of everyday life,” said Wombwell.
“We approached Newcastle Quay as a piece of city-making. With strong design principles that emphasise structure, how streets connect, how public space is framed, and how the precinct can evolve over time while maintaining a strong and legible identity.”
According to a communique from Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, the completed precinct is estimated to generate approximately $133 million each year for the city and region.
Site preparation works for the project are expected to begin in 2026.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
