Upper Hunter Shire Council has announced the official opening of the Scone CBD Revitalisation Project, marking a significant milestone in the transformation of Scone’s town centre.
With $24.7 million invested into the project, including $8 million from the Australian Government, the revitalisation is delivering a modern and accessible precinct that will support local businesses, enhance liveability, and attract visitors for years to come, the Council said in a statement.
The revitalisation has introduced critical infrastructure upgrades, including resurfaced roads, widened footpaths, upgraded lighting, and extensive landscaping. Essential water main and stormwater assets have also been upgraded, reducing the risk of service disruptions, mitigate flooding and ensuring reliability for the growing community. Additional parking spaces has also been created.
Upper Hunter Shire Mayor, Maurice Collison acknowledged the patience and support of the community throughout the project’s delivery.
“Projects like this don’t happen without patience and support from our community. I want to thank everyone – residents, business owners, and visitors – for their understanding as we worked to deliver this significant upgrade. The result is a town centre we can all be proud of, one that will serve Scone well into the future,” Mayor Collison said.
He said the Scone CBD Revitalisation not only enhances the town’s visual appeal but also reinforces its reputation as the Horse Capital of Australia. A key feature of the redevelopment is the Equine Walk of Fame, celebrating the region’s rich equine heritage while creating a unique drawcard for visitors.
“The Scone CBD Revitalisation reflects both our town’s rich equine heritage and our vision for the future. With thoughtful design, including features like the Equine Walk of Fame, we’ve honoured our past while building an attractive and functional space that will carry us forward for generations to come,” Mayor Collison said.
The economic benefits of the project are expected to extend well beyond its official opening, with the improvements expected to boost local businesses, attract new investment, and strengthen Scone’s position as a key regional hub. Located just two hours from Newcastle and three hours from Sydney, Scone is ideally positioned as both a destination and a convenient stopping point for travellers along the New England Highway, the Mayor said.
“This project shows what can be achieved when local, State, and Federal governments work together with our community. The revitalisation is not just about infrastructure – it’s about creating opportunities, supporting local jobs, and enhancing Scone’s reputation as a destination worth visiting and enjoying.”
Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said it was fantastic to see the project reach completion creating a vibrant welcoming space that supports local businesses, the local community and tourism.
“Scone is a regional NSW hub celebrated for its equine industry and steeped in history, which makes it a fantastic pit stop for locals and tourists travelling through the Upper Hunter region for work or leisure,” Minister Moriarty said.
“The NSW Government is committed to enhancing public infrastructure in regional NSW which supports local business, boosts connection and preserves local history.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said modernising and improving the Scone CBD will provide a significant economic boost to the region and create exciting new opportunities for local businesses.
“The highlight of this project is the St Aubins Town Square, which will be an exciting new public space for community events and market activities,” he said.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison said the revitalisation had delivered a significant uplift in amenity for residents and visitors to Australia’s equine capital.
“The NSW Government contributed $7.5 million towards the Scone Main Street works, including to upgrade the concrete road pavement, meaning smoother and safer journeys for all road users,” she said.
“We are proud to have helped bring Upper Hunter Shire Council’s vision to life as well as providing economic benefits that cement Scone’s position as a key regional hub.”
