Community invited to help shape future of harbourside landmark

Credit: Destination NSW

Novocastrians are being asked to share their memories and put forward new ideas for the future of Queens Wharf. The waterfront precinct has been a popular destination since it was constructed as a Bicentennial project and officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988. 

---

Thirty-seven years later City of Newcastle is looking to breathe new life into the harbourside landmark for the next generation of Novocastrians and visitors.

The Queens Wharf precinct includes two separate buildings, two car parks, a public promenade and the Transport for NSW owned ferry wharf.

The western building has been vacant since a fire in May 2020 rendered it unusable. City of Newcastle will lodge a development application later this month to prepare for its demolition. 

The adjacent Queens Wharf Hotel will continue trading under its current lease.

Lord Mayor Dr Ross Kerridge encouraged community members to help guide the new vision for Queens Wharf by getting involved in the consultation, which officially opens today.

"For more than three decades this much-loved harbourside destination has served as the backdrop for countless memorable moments," Cr Kerridge said.

"The transformation of Queens Wharf is a chance to create a place that will be a meaningful landmark of our city for current and future generations alike.

"We’ll be working closely with the community and local businesses to ensure it reflects shared priorities and responds to real needs."

CEO Jeremy Bath said the community consultation and future demolition of the western building were critical steps in realising a new and vibrant future for the site.

"Queens Wharf is owned by City of Newcastle and this won’t change. Our vision is for this precinct to be the vibrant heart of Newcastle's waterfront, connecting Stockton, Honeysuckle, Foreshore Park and Newcastle East," Mr Bath said.

"The revitalisation of Queens Wharf is a complex undertaking that requires careful due diligence, consultation with the community and detailed technical studies to guide its progression.

“Site assessments for the western building have been underway throughout this year to prepare for the early works and approvals needed to support future redevelopment."

Councillor Declan Clausen, Chair of City of Newcastle's Asset Advisory Committee, said the Queens Wharf precinct is an important hub on Newcastle's waterfront.

"We're reimagining Queens Wharf to celebrate our local identity and establish a legacy for future generations," Cr Clausen said.

"The revitalisation of Queens Wharf will continue the transformation of Newcastle's historic East End into a thriving and dynamic destination for the region."

Community members can have their say through a range of consultation activities, including an online survey seeking feedback on how City of Newcastle can turn Queens Wharf into a vibrant destination in the short and long term.

Face-to-face opportunities will also be provided for people to share their ideas for the site, with the first of four engagement stalls popping up at the Homegrown Markets at The Station this Saturday from 10am to 2pm. Future sessions will be held at Queens Wharf, Market Street Lawn and Stockton Foreshore.

For more information on how to get involved visit the Have Your Say page on City of Newcastle's website before 3 September.