The NSW Government has named DOMA Group as the successful delivery partner for Honeysuckle HQ, the final piece in the revitalisation of Newcastle Harbour.
The Government said the mixed-use precinct will deliver around 1,000 new homes alongside jobs, public spaces, hospitality, tourism and cultural offerings on the city’s iconic harbourfront.
The Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) has led the renewal of Honeysuckle, transforming former industrial land into a vibrant waterfront destination with Honeysuckle HQ being the final piece of the puzzle.
The proposal includes around 1,000 new homes, commercial and retail space to support around 4,000 workers, and a new 180-room hotel and conference centre integrated with the heritage-listed Wickham School of Arts.
“Today’s milestone announcement marks a significant moment in the Honeysuckle Urban Renewal Project and reflects what the community told us they wanted to see – a well-connected precinct with quality public spaces, that strengthens connections to the waterfront and transport and creates opportunities for vibrant activation,” said HCCDC Chief Executive, Valentina Misevska.
“It also delivers on ambitions for high quality design and sustainability, while respecting the area’s heritage and culture, creating a precinct that offers something for everyone.”
The master-planned precinct will feature more than 11,000 square metres of public open space, including a new waterfront park known as ‘Honeysuckle Green’, a Wickham School of Arts-anchored plaza, improved pedestrian connections and shared public spaces designed to maximise community access to the harbourfront.
DOMA Group Managing Director, Jure Domazet said Honeysuckle HQ will be “truly special” for Newcastle.
“We are proud that our proposal for this harbourfront precinct will create an iconic landmark destination, a legacy the city truly deserves,” said Mr Domazet.
“We engaged four leading architectural firms to shape each building with a distinct design vision, creating something unique, interesting and inspired by the enviable setting.
“DOMA Group is honoured to continue our investment in the Hunter region and to have the opportunity to deliver this world class city-shaping precinct for Newcastle.”
Construction is anticipated to contribute around $80 million annually to the economy, while the completed precinct is expected to generate approximately $133 million each year for the city and region.
“The Hunter is growing, and the Minns Labor Government is backing the homes, jobs and investment our region needs,” said Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley.
“This is the final piece of a transformation that has turned old industrial land into one of the best waterfront precincts in Australia.
“This is exactly the kind of project the Hunter deserves – ambitious, practical and built around what makes Newcastle great: the harbour, the heritage and the people.”
Site preparation works are expected to begin this year.
