Prominent developer Dr Jerry Schwartz has produced a new flythrough video of his proposed carousel for the Rydges Hotel in Newcastle, aiming to demonstrate that the amusement ride will have minimal impact on the surrounding foreshore area. The 30-second visual presentation is set to be used as key evidence in an upcoming Land and Environment Court challenge against the City of Newcastle's repeated rejections of the project.
Council Rejection and Heritage Concerns
The Newcastle council has refused the carousel plans on two separate occasions, citing significant concerns about urban design, built form, character, visual amenity, and heritage preservation. Council officials determined that the form, scale, and appearance of the proposed structure were unsympathetic to the setting and would detract from the qualities of both the natural and built environment while offering minimal public benefit.
Schwartz's Counterargument Through Visual Evidence
Dr Schwartz contends that the new flythrough clearly shows how the seven-metre-wide by 6.5-metre-tall amusement ride, to be situated on the hotel's own land, would actually enhance rather than diminish the area. "You can hardly see the carousel and what you can see of it is really colourful and fun," Schwartz stated. He believes the video effectively mitigates arguments that the structure would impose significantly on the foreshore.
Some commentators, including representatives from City of Newcastle, have suggested Schwartz should instead focus his efforts on restoring the heritage-listed former Newcastle Post Office building rather than pursuing the $25,000 carousel project. In response, Schwartz emphasized his commitment to investing in and improving all his properties throughout the Hunter region, which include Rydges Newcastle, Rydges Hunter Valley, Newcastle Novotel, and the historic post office building.
Heritage Building Inspection Scheduled
Heritage NSW officials are scheduled to inspect the condition of the former post office building next month. A previous inspection conducted in mid-2025 revealed that aspects of the 1903 structure had been heavily compromised. Schwartz indicated this week that he hopes to complete a Section 60 works application to coincide with the upcoming inspection.
Understanding Section 60 Requirements
The Section 60 application pertains to works and activities that may have moderate or greater impact on the significance of State Heritage Register-listed items. This application serves as a prerequisite for obtaining a construction certificate. Heritage NSW has previously expressed commitment to working closely with both the council and Dr Schwartz on the building's restoration, promising thorough assessment once all relevant applications are submitted to ensure the heritage significance of this important place is properly retained and celebrated.
