A major affordable housing development planned for the final undeveloped section of Newcastle's former heavy rail line has sparked a significant dispute between the local council and nearby residents.
The Heart of the Dispute
Community housing provider Home in Place has been selected to design, finance, build, and operate the proposed Rail Bridge Row project. The City of Newcastle is currently progressing a development application (DA) for essential site preparation works, including mine grouting estimated to cost $742,350.
However, the Hunter Street Foreshore Residents Association Incorporated (HSFRA) is vehemently opposed. The group argues the area is already overdeveloped and is campaigning for the land to be transformed into much-needed public green space instead. Association member Christine Bolstad pointed out the stark lack of greenery, stating there is "virtually no green space on Hunter Street" between Kuwumi Place and Crown Street.
Resident Concerns and Council Assurance
Residents have lodged nearly 30 objections, raising alarms about potential structural impacts on nearby buildings, along with major concerns regarding dust, noise, privacy, and possible site contamination during construction. Ms Bolstad also expressed frustration over a perceived lack of communication, feeling the council was treating the project as a "fait accompli." The association has requested the council engage an independent consultant to assess the DA, given the council is both the applicant and the approving authority.
A City of Newcastle spokeswoman countered, stating the council purchased the 4125-square-metre site at 280 Hunter Street in 2020 with a clear commitment to affordable housing. This plan, she said, has been consistently communicated and is supported by successive councils to address the housing crisis. The proposal is part of a long-term strategy to support a growing population, with Newcastle preparing for an increase of more than 40,000 people by 2041.
The Proposed Development
The concept design from Home in Place outlines a substantial build for the prime location opposite the Crown Street light rail stop. The plans include:
- 48 affordable housing units in a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.
- 35 car spaces above ground-floor commercial development.
- A new laneway connecting Argyle Lane with Wharf Road.
- A new cycleway link to Market Street.
The council spokeswoman confirmed that residents were directly notified of the DA for remediation works in September 2025 and that a drop-in session was held. She stated that all DAs are assessed in line with state government requirements and the council's conflict of interest policy. If approved, the essential mine remediation works are expected to commence in 2026.
