IMAGINE LAKE MAC
OUR PLAN TO 2050 AND BEYONDIMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 1 CITY VISION Bringing our City Vision WE BALANCE to life, Imagine Lake Mac OUR CHERISHED helps us to look ahead ENVIRONMENTS with purpose WITH OUR NEED FOR GREAT SPACES TO Its goal is to fulfil the LIVE AND VISIT, SMART City’s potential TRANSPORT OPTIONS …To be one of the most AND A THRIVING productive, adaptable, ECONOMY; WHICH sustainable and highly ADAPT AND STRIVE TO liveable places in Australia BE FAIR FOR ALL.
Acknowledgement Lake Macquarie City Council acknowledges the Awabakal People, the traditional custodians of the land over which this document was prepared. We pay respect to knowledge holders and community members of the land and acknowledge and pay respect to Elders, past, present and future. We would also like to acknowledge staff, Councillors and community members involved in preparing this strategy.
2 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 3 Message from the Mayor Message from the CEO I am pleased to present Imagine Lake Lake Macquarie City is a vibrant place to Mac, a long-term strategy that will guide work, live and invest. the evolution of the City. Its natural landscape, particularly the Imagining Lake Macquarie in 2050, I lake and coastline, shape our lifestyle see a dynamic and productive city and and love of the outdoors. The nine a place that enables its community to major centres strategically spread thrive. across the City are focal points for It is a progressive city, well known for its employment, recreation, retail and innovation, investment opportunities, services. Three of them, at Charlestown, outdoor adventures, liveability, and of Glendale and Morisset, are important course its natural beauty. regional hubs for the Hunter. This vision is not a stretch of the We are committed to preserving the imagination. We are already within City’s unique features, but we are also reach of it because we have a strong preparing for change. foundation to continue building upon. Growth provides opportunity. In Lake Imagine Lake Mac identifies four Macquarie, population growth has key growth areas - North East from the potential to stimulate investment, Charlestown to Belmont, South East construction, employment and between Caves Beach and North consumer expenditure within the City. Wallarah, North West including Cardiff, Increased economic activity will ensure Glendale and surrounds, and the South our City is recognised as a leading West spanning Cooranbong to Wyee. contributor to the region. These areas have existing infrastructure By making plans now, we can influence that supports housing, transport, local growth and help increase economic activity, recreation and room economic activity so it enhances the for growth. lifestyle of our residents. More jobs, Most of the change we will see over the plenty of housing, ample services and next three decades will happen in these many opportunities to connect and play growth areas, especially within and will make our City even better. around our centres. Imagine Lake Mac provides us with I encourage you to read Imagine Lake strategies to preserve and enrich Mac to find out what those changes are, the parts of our community and where it will happen and what it may environment that we love most. It also look like in the future. ensures we can adapt to change as it occurs, and leverage opportunities that Kay Fraser will allow us to live life to its fullest. Mayor of Lake Macquarie I welcome the future that Imagine Lake Mac seeks to achieve. Morven Cameron Chief Executive Officer
4 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 5 CONTENTS
8 OVERVIEW 22 WHAT ARE WE 32 SHAPING LAKE 42 CHANGE AND GROWTH PLANNING FOR? MACQUARIE CITY TO Areas of change 44 SOUTH EAST GROWTH AREA 50 TORONTO AND SURROUNDS 58 14 INTRODUCTION Population 24 2050 AND BEYOND NORTH EAST GROWTH AREA 46 Caves Beach Centre and 50 Toronto Economic Centre 58 What is Imagine Lake Mac? 16 Liveability 25 A city of vibrant centres 34 Charlestown Strategic 48 Tourism Precinct Rathmines 58 What does it seek to achieve? 17 Transport 26 A city to call home 35 Economic Centre Swansea 50 Fassifern Rail Station 58 How was it created? 20 Infrastructure 28 A city of prosperity 36 Warners Bay Economic Centre 48 Lake Macquarie 50 Awaba 58 Airport Precinct Housing 28 A city of close connections 37 Hillsborough Road Business 48 Park and Recreation / Catherine Hill Bay 50 Economy 29 A city for progress and play 38 SOUTH WEST GROWTH AREA 60 Entertainment Area Change and opportunity 29 A city with a vast natural 39 Morisset Strategic 60 Windale 49 NORTH WEST GROWTH AREA 52 Natural environment 30 environment Economic Centre Mount Hutton 49 Glendale Strategic 54 A city of resilience 40 Cooranbong 60 Rural production areas 30 Economic Centre Gateshead Health Precinct 49 Wyee 60 Jewels 49 Cardiff Advanced 54 Industry Precinct Belmont Economic Centre 49 Munibung Precinct 54 Belmont North Precinct 49 Cardiff Economic Centre 55 Teralba 55 Boolaroo – Speers Point 55 Edgeworth 56 Cameron Park 56 West Wallsend 56 North West Lake 57 Macquarie Catalyst Area
6 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 7 Committed to shaping our future
We will enhance the lifestyle of residents
Providing more opportunities for work, fun and a place to call home
Playing a bigger role in contributing to the region’s growth and wellbeing
Creating change that will enhance the social, economic and environmental foundations of the City OVERVIEW
8 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 9 OVERVIEW WHAT DOES OUR OPPORTUNITY A HIGHLY
Lake Macquarie City already has ways to travel within and beyond To make the most of these a strong foundation, ready to the City. opportunities, public and private become one of the most productive, investment need to be aligned with LIVEABLE Lake Macquarie City’s location adaptable, sustainable and liveable our efforts to enhance social and midway on the east coast axis places in Australia. environmental wellbeing. between Melbourne and Brisbane There is opportunity to enhance the presents an opportunity for us to This is what Imagine Lake Mac aims lifestyle of City residents, providing play a bigger role in contributing to to do. more employment, recreation, the region’s growth. socialisation, choice of housing and LAKE MAC Pub lic inv es tm e LOOK LIKE? Roads Cycleways n t Tourism Community Facilities Infrastructure Public domain Transport improvements Education
l a i and meet the needs of diverse networks will be extensive and connect c The City’s economic Housing demographics. A focus of Imagine Lake people to centres and public transport. o Recreation GOAL centres will anchor the Mac is to facilitate development of S We have a long-term vision to see the Tourism medium to high-density housing such Sport areas where we will creation of a city centre, too. The vision Lake Mac in 2050 will Health as apartments, townhouses and homes
P for such a centre is that it is a thriving, Libraries be one of the most activate significant on small lots in and around our centres. Business r bustling social and economic hub,
Physical and mental health i productive, adaptable, Recreation v change. Public investment to expand transport day and night. It would include retail, Connection sustainable and a options should be a catalyst for government, commercial and business
Industry t Levering these economic hubs will
Cultural liveable places in e help us to cater for an increase in attracting private investment in medium activities and offer social, cultural and
Night time activities i population and provide the City’s to high density development. entertainment opportunities.
Safety Australia. n v housing, jobs, recreation and services The completion of the Lake Macquarie A city centre would be a major transport
e in highly accessible areas. It will also Transport Interchange will unlock node, have a higher density of people s t add to the social foundations of the City potential for further development in living in and close to the area, and it
m and contribute to our environmental the North West Growth Area, as well as would be easily accessible from other
e sustainability. providing a regionally significant link parts of the City and further afield.
Lake and creeks Heritage n
t radiating from the north to the south. Mountains and Paths and trails Intensifying development in key Finally, the ‘jewel in the crown’ for the ridges areas also opens up opportunities for Also, there is significant opportunity for City will be the abundance of high Air and water diversifying our economy. The creation
Bushland quality high speed rail and a Very Fast Train quality indoor and outdoor spaces
of dynamic workspaces, co-location of station to strengthen our connection to connect with others, enjoy nature,
Beaches and Foreshore businesses to improve collaboration, t with other regions and our position as a relax or get active. These spaces may
n coastline and continued investment in digital
e key economic and growth contributor. be bushland reserves, the lake and
m infrastructure will provide the
n foreshore, parks, a quiet garden area
o In the future, our centres and their r
i foundations for more diverse industries
v within a busy centre, or a purpose-built
n
e surrounds will be more pedestrian
l to call Lake Mac home. a r area within a multi-use building. u t a N friendly and encourage the use of active By 2050, there will be a greater variety transport such as walking and cycling as In summary, Lake Macquarie City will of housing types across the City to the preferred way to move around the become an even better place to live, accommodate a growing population City. Pedestrian and shared pathway visit, work and invest in.
10 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 11 To Hunter Valley
VFT To Minmi
To Newcastle University and John Hunter Hospital Glendale
Cardiff To Newcastle City Centre
Warners Bay Charlestown
Mt Hutton
Toronto Change will occur in Belmont and around our centres and growth corridors Swansea
As the name suggests, the North West role as a regional strategic economic development. It is also identified in the Catalyst Area will drive investment centre will continue to be a focus Greater Newcastle Metropolitan Plan to Morisset and change in the broader North West for investment and intensification be a location of significant population Growth Area, which incorporates land of housing, employment, transport, and employment growth. between Speers Point, Edgeworth and services and recreational opportunities. Its position near the Central Coast, M1 Cardiff. The cluster of varied medical facilities Pacific Motorway and Northern Rail Line The central and accessible location and services at Gateshead, including means that increased access to this within the Greater Newcastle Lake Macquarie Private Hospital, opens area has potential to facilitate growth Metropolitan Area provides opportunity possibilities for an expanded, regionally and affordable and diverse housing
to generate significant jobs, diversify significant health precinct. This precinct development. To Sydney housing supply, and add more advanced would complement the increased Imagining Lake Mac in 2050, we see manufacturing, recreation, open space density and diversity of housing in a city that is highly adaptable to and services to the broader region. Its surrounding areas such as Windale, social, environmental and economic proximity to the rail line and access Whitebridge and Kahibah. changes; and one that has outstanding to the arterial road network provides The South East Growth Area is where sustainability and liveability. a solid foundation for a wide range of the lake meets the ocean, between To Sydney economic growth opportunities. Caves Beach and North Wallarah. Imagine Lake Mac There is great potential for the Glendale Compared to other key areas, the South CITY STRUCTURE AND OPPORTUNITY MAP – West Wallsend Urban Intensification East already has a higher concentration articulates this in detail, Corridor to increase supply of diverse of accommodation and active tourism including how we want Strategic ecomonic centre Area zoned for urban and other Conceptual route Lower Private coal haul road and affordable housing. operators, making this the prime Hunter Freight corridor purposes Regional biodiversity position for leveraging existing the City to evolve over Economic centre The western edge of this corridor is also Conceptual route connectivity economic and natural landscapes to the next few decades, Heritage sensitive local centre Green network Very Fast Train (VFT) ideal for a Very Fast Train (VFT) station Proposed main road become the City’s tourism hub. Airport Existing railway line surrounded by significant and intense where we want change to Future growth investigation area housing and employment, while the Bordered by the lake and ocean, parts Train station Existing main road happen and how we will High-capacity, high- VFT indicative station Urban intensification area high heritage and biodiversity values of this area will also experience change VFT frequency public transport within this area will be retained and as we ensure it adapts to mitigate risks achieve it. Indicative major cycleway, contribute to the overall liveability. of flooding and sea level rise. shared pathway route The North East Growth Area from In the South West Growth Area, Charlestown to Belmont has potential Cooranbong, Morisset and Wyee have for significant growth. Charlestown’s considerable opportunities for urban
12 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 13 Imagine Lake Mac paints a picture of the City
How we want it to look, feel and function in the future
INTRODUCTION
14 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 15 WHAT IS WHAT DOES IT SEEK IMAGINE TO ACHIEVE? Imagine Lake Mac identifies seven Aspirations underpinned by strategies, which are key to bringing the City Vision to life. These Aspirations will evolve the City into one LAKE MAC? of the most productive, adaptable, sustainable, and liveable places in Australia. Imagine Lake Mac’s seven strategic Aspirations:
A city of vibrant centres Our centres will play vital economic and social roles in the City, providing more opportunities to co-locate jobs, essential services, housing and transport options and recreational activities.
Imagine Lake Mac is a high-level, To achieve this, Imagine Lake Mac long-term strategy that guides identifies: A city to call home the growth and change of the City. The City will provide opportunities for substantial growth in new housing, including a greater mix of housing types to • 7 Aspirations that expand on the City Vision accommodate our growing population. Its intention is to influence public by stating how we want the City to be by the and private investment so that it year 2050; enhances the wellbeing of people • Strategies that summarise how we will achieve the intended outcomes, as well A city of prosperity and the environment - making Lake as a list of evaluation measures so we can Our economy will transform, mature and evolve, capitalising on emerging industries, attracting new investment and Macquarie City one of the most measure our progress and success; and broader employment opportunities and industries to create opportunity and prosperity. appealing, liveable and sustainable • Change and Growth Areas that include maps places in the country. that provide visual cues of where certain types of development will be focused to Everything we do from now to achieve the desired outcomes. A city of close connections 2050 and beyond will enhance the Imagine Lake Mac articulates how we will Expanding active transport networks; co-locating housing, jobs and services; maximising progress in technological change develop the look, feel and function of our City such as electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles and on-demand public transport; and planning and advocating for liveability of the City and every over the next three decades. Detailed actions appropriate infrastructure will cater for population growth and stimulate investment within the City. aspect of life including our health, and priorities that will deliver this vision are to be included in Council’s Local Strategic Planning social connectedness, education, Statement. employment, wealth, safety, and A city of progress and play harmony with the environment. Our centres and neighbourhoods will provide a broader variety of inclusive and vibrant public spaces where locals and visitors come together to work, rest or play.
A city with a vast natural environment Lake Macquarie City’s vast natural landscape and rich heritage will be protected and enhanced, and there will be more opportunities for people to enjoy it.
A city of resilience Lake Macquarie will continue to be an adaptable city that has effective responses to social, climatic and economic change and moves towards a more sustainable future.
16 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 17 Important Aboriginal and European heritage sites allow people to connect with the past The City’s diverse natural environments are healthy, thriving, well-connected ecosystems
Residents and visitors, no matter of their abilities or cultural background, When our feel welcome and part of community life, thanks to the range of facilities, services and activities on offer People gather in beautiful public spaces to relax or to play. At night, the fun continues as people come together to enjoy the live aspirations entertainment and variety of dining on offer
Green, leafy mature trees line our neighbourhoods, streets and pathways, and taking in the majestic lake or mountain views are a delight from many are realised, of the buildings in and around our centres There are always people outside as they cycle, walk, enjoy the playgrounds, or swim, run, climb, ride, paddle and play in our wonderful outdoor spaces what will
Lake Macquarie is an innovative city, known as the place to invest or start up a creative or knowledge based company that look
The centres buzz with activity as businesses open up for service, shops put up their sale signs, cafes welcome their regulars and as people head to work like? Apartments, townhouses and small-lot homes are the preferred housing options for people wanting to live within or near centres More footpaths, shared paths, bus stops, train stations, dedicated transit routes, and increased public transport frequency makes it easy and convenient for people, goods and services to travel around There is easy access and beyond the City to well managed and protected natural areas
18 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 19 HOW WAS IT CREATED?
Imagine Lake Mac is based on an approach that combines an Global appreciation of global influences with an understanding of how people experience the places where they live, work and play.
National It builds on Lifestyle 2030 to United Nations Greater Newcastle reflect current global to local Sustainable Development Metropolitan Plan 2036 influences, as well as the community’s Vision and Values Goals Set out further detail for the Lower Hunter, influencing our focus on High-level guidance in relation to that were developed in 2016 employment, the environment, desirable social, economic and New South Wales and included in the Community resilience, housing, and transport environmental goals Strategic Plan. Imagine Lake Mac reflects the goals, plans Australian Government’s Lake Macquarie and inputs from the documents Smart City Plan Community Strategic Plan listed below to ensure it Set out the community’s priorities for Provided a national perspective on contributes to the broader the next 10 years Hunter Regional Plan the development of cities, based on regional, national and global a cooperative approach to long-term picture. planning, targeted investment and Specialist studies reform A number of specialist studies were undertaken to provide a greater Hunter Regional Plan understanding of trends and possible responses. These studies related Greater Newcastle 2036 to population and demographics, Provided a regional-level land use transport, housing, economics, and Metropolitan Plan policy, including focusing development biodiversity to create compact communities to live within 30 minutes of a strategic centre Community consultation Extensive public consultation conducted between 2016-2018 guided the Imagine Lake Mac Aspirations and strategies of Imagine Lake Mac
Local plans and strategies
20 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 21 How we respond to challenges and opportunities now will sculpt the city
Affecting generations to come
We commit to understanding what those challenges and opportunities are
WHAT What they may be ARE WE in the future …To ensure our PLANNING long-term prosperity, sustainability and FOR? wellbeing
22 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 23 POPULATION LIVEABILITY
Projections show that Lake Macquarie City will providing more opportunities for people to live Whatever the growth scenario, we want Our infrastructure, culture and natural continue to experience population growth. and work in the City, becoming more integrated Lake Macquarie City to be a highly environment supports quality of life. into a dynamic growing region. In this scenario, liveable city where everyone feels a It allows people to explore, connect, A range of factors will influence that growth, the population potentially grows to about 335,000 great sense of wellbeing. play, innovate and thrive. How we including: by 2050. plan for and respond to the impacts • government policy (for example immigration, Our growing population will have of population growth and social, employment , infrastructure, health, The third scenario is a situation where Lake easy access to high-quality local jobs, economic, technological, and climate education, financial); Macquarie City and the region finds itself within community facilities, essential services, changes will influence the liveability of • extent and scale of planned State, the reach of the expanding global city that is healthcare, education, transport, social the City. Commonwealth and private investment in Sydney. Liveability pressures in Sydney, emerging and cultural activities, affordable and education, health, travel and defence in the live-and-work-anywhere trends thanks to digital diverse housing and recreation spaces. metropolitan area; connectivity, and enhanced transport links Residents and visitors will have a strong • lifestyle choice; along the Lake Macquarie / Newcastle – Sydney connection with our natural areas such • consumer confidence; – Wollongong axis have potential to create as the lake, our beaches and beautiful • social, environmental and technological significant growth. Related opportunities and bushland. factors; pressures will need to be managed well. In this • micro/macro-economic factors (for example scenario, population could grow to about 388,000 interest rates, housing affordability, number by 2050. and type of jobs in an area, lending practices); There are various social, economic and • availability of appropriate housing. environmental implications associated with each Imagine Lake Mac identifies of these scenarios. three growth scenarios. Imagine Lake Mac’s strategies allow the City The first scenario reflects current economic, to respond to all three scenarios. Demand population and demographic trends. In this for land and infrastructure along with the scenario, the population is expected to grow from other implications of each scenario will be 205,000 in 2019 to approximately 250,000 by 2050. identified, monitored and responded The second scenario sees a greater recognition of the Lower Hunter region as a preferred place to to appropriately. live and work. This results in Lake Macquarie City
00,000
50,000
00,000 Historic Scenario 1 250,000 Scenario 2 Scenario 3
200,000
50,000 0 0 2 2 50 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
24 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 25 TRANSPORT To Hunter Valley VFT To Minmi
Making our City more pedestrian and the bridge over the rail line that will opportunities to ensure there are more To Newcastle niversity cyclist-friendly is our top priority connect Cardiff to Glendale, and a new ways to connect with services and and John Hunter Hospital followed by improving public transport train station that will bring a range of people, and move through and around Glendale infrastructure and services, supporting transport options into one regionally the City. We will work towards the freight and service vehicles and working significant transport interchange. provision of appropriate infrastructure Cardiff to ensure ease and safety of private to support the uptake of technology to To Newcastle There is also opportunity for exploring LMTI City Centre vehicle use. In 2050 this will be our improve the performance of transport the potential benefits of working with transport hierarchy. outcomes in the City. other levels of government to provide a Reducing the distance between housing, ferry service on the lake. A ferry network As mining declines in the City, jobs and services by enabling more would provide direct, convenient supporting transport infrastructure, Warners Bay Charlestown people to live close to our centres connections across the lake. such as the private coal haul road on will make walking and cycling more the western side of the City has the Our network of centres around the lake, attractive. Improving safety through potential to be repurposed for public Mt Hutton combined with the Pacific Highway, physical separation between cars and transport use. and road system from Glendale to West cyclists will add to this attraction. Wallsend and to Wyee, could provide Finally, links such as the Main Northern As part of encouraging a greater use of the basis of a high-frequency, high- Railway, M1 Pacific Motorway, and Toronto active transport, we will work towards capacity public transport network, with Hunter Expressway will become more expanding and linking walking and each of our centres providing hubs for important as our economy becomes cycling pathways, ensuring they are local services and active transport. more intertwined with other regions on Belmont accessible, expansive and connected. the East Coast. These links are likely to Such a network would reduce As well as a reduction in congestion, be complemented by the Lower Hunter congestion and reinforce the economic active transport provides enjoyment, Freight Rail Bypass and Very Fast Train activity and vibrancy of our centres, health benefits, reduces household projects, which are in early investigation with more people visiting and working and infrastructure costs, and increases stages. in these areas. opportunities for social connection. Emerging and maturing technologies The missing links to complete the Lake such as electric and autonomous Macquarie Transport Interchange are vehicles, on-demand transport, and Swansea still on our agenda. These include drones may also provide wonderful TRANSPORT HIERARCHY Morisset
People
To Sydney
Public transport
To Sydney TRANSPORT MAP
Strategic ecomonic centre Area zoned for urban and other High priority, high- Conceptual route Lower Service purposes capacity, high-frequency Hunter Freight corridor Economic centre public transport vehicles Conceptual route Local centre Green network Secondary priority, high- Very Fast Train (VFT) capacity, high-frequency Existing railway line Airport public transport Existing main road Train station Major cycleway, shared pathway Private coal haul road VFT VFT indicative station Potential ferry network LMTI Proposed Lake Mac Transport Interchange Proposed main road Private vehicles
Source: National Association of City Transport Officials. 2013. Global Street Design Guide. Washington: Island Press. 26 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 27 INFRASTRUCTURE ECONOMY
Attracting and keeping skilled workers and rejuvenate our ageing workforce The vision for such a CBD is that it is a Growth in the City and particularly in Coordinating public and private The location of critical infrastructure within the City is a precursor to the and demography. thriving, bustling social and economic our centres needs to be supported infrastructure investment will be crucial will also need to consider impacts on attraction of investment capital. hub, day and night. It would include We will be responsive to the changing by appropriate infrastructure. This to becoming a highly liveable city. society and the natural environment. retail, commercial and business Currently, half of all the jobs in needs of industry and business to infrastructure needs to be planned Council will continue to be a reliable activities and offer social, cultural and Lake Macquarie are within retail, ensure we enable opportunities for and delivered in a coordinated way. partner for State, Federal and private entertainment opportunities too. This strategy seeks to focus growth infrastructure investment. manufacturing, healthcare and investment. We will ensure that well- and development in our existing education. Imagine Lake Mac seeks to located employment land is available It will be a focal point for civic and Infrastructure will also be a catalyst for urban areas and around centres where fulfil the City’s potential to build the for future employment growth. government buildings and functions, investment and economic development. knowledge and creative industries become a major transport node, have infrastructure already exists. Tapping into our existing strengths, For example, the continued provision that will drive further economic and a higher density of people living in and The types of infrastructure needed to there is also opportunity to increase of key infrastructure projects such employment growth. close to the area, and it would be easily support a growing liveable City include: local jobs in our centres and as the Lake Macquarie Transport accessible from other parts of the City • public facilities; The small business sector will continue employment zones. More jobs in these Interchange, will help to unlock the and further afield. • community infrastructure; to be a major jobs generator towards areas will reduce commuting times and potential of industrial and residential • transport; 2050, particularly in creative, knowledge lower household travel costs. land for further development, making • drainage; based and tourism industries. it attractive to investors. Provision will We will also explore the creation of • water, electricity, communication Importantly, these industries can attract need to be made for emerging and a Central Business District (CBD) that and sewer; more bright young professionals to Lake maturing technologies such as electric could become a focal point of the City • education and health; Macquarie to drive economic growth vehicle charging and autonomous and its identity. • law enforcement. vehicles. CHANGE AND HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
The population of Lake Macquarie is they minimise the need for housing building technologies and reducing Change is inevitable. Technology, We need to meet community needs Also, many of Imagine Lake Mac’s changing. We have a higher proportion developments in rural and natural whole of lifecycle costs. population growth, social shifts, climate now, while planning to continue to do strategies will contribute to the of people under the age of 25, than areas and allow for greater diversity change and economic pressures and so for future generations. NSW Government’s Climate Change In 2016, almost 85 per cent of dwellings those aged 65 and over. Over the next in housing types. They provide opportunities are already influencing Policy Framework, achieving net-zero in the City were detached homes. By We have already made great progress few decades, the gap between these convenience, accessibility, affordability, and shaping how we live. emissions by 2050. 2050, we will have a more diverse mix of in developing local adaptation plans, groups is expected to narrow as our and inclusiveness by being close single dwellings, semi-detached homes, Council’s work in creating an adaptive developing and implementing a We will continue to develop strategies, residents age. to jobs, shops, services and public small-lot houses, townhouses, and and resilient city ensures we can always smart city strategy, and improving the policies and infrastructure and facilities transport. Demand is expected to increase for apartments in existing developed areas. overcome unexpected challenges sustainability of our City over time. so that they are flexible and adaptable more diverse housing, such as smaller We can also help to improve the and be ready to take advantage of to changing needs. We will also provide similar We are ensuring all our strategies and homes, and those that can be adapted affordability and sustainability of opportunities, stemming from such opportunities for housing in well- plans are flexible enough to be able to to people’s changing needs. housing by better matching housing change. located and serviced new release areas. adapt to change quickly, if needed. type, design and location with Our centres not only offer opportunity community needs, applying new to meet the growing population
28 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 29 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Glendale Our natural assets are a defining Our Blue and Green Network proposed Awaba Conservation Area and feature. includes National Park Estate, high Coastal Wetlands Park. Cardiff ecological value areas, rural and other The lake continues to underpin the We will avoid clearing high ecological environmental areas, the lake and its City’s identity, and its health is critical value areas. If other planning priorities tributaries, the coastline, as well as to our lifestyle and the future of our unavoidably affect these areas, we will recreational open space such as playing economy. ensure impacts are appropriately offset. fields. Warners Bay Charlestown With growth pressure, we will continue Areas noted in the following map to protect and enhance the health and as high ecological value include Mt Hutton amenity of our natural areas, waterways biodiversity corridors and areas needed and coast. We will achieve this by to maintain the connection of habitats protecting and managing significant across the City. It also includes natural areas of biodiversity and reinforcing buffers to the lake foreshore, major local and regional biodiversity corridors. Toronto creeks and coast that provide habitat and protection. City-wide planting and augmenting our Belmont bushland and urban areas will improve High ecological value: amenity and lessen the warming effects • occurs on land that is not of climate change. anticipated to be developed As well as those important natural according to current plans; and areas, recreational areas are vital for • occurs on land that has or may be the City’s liveability. We will support developed according to current opportunities to enjoy the City’s natural planning documents. environment. In particular, recreation Particular areas have been identified spaces and public places near our Swansea as having very high conservation value, centres will be flexible to meet a making a significant contribution to variety of needs and cater for changing the reserve system. These include the demands over time.
Morisset RURAL PRODUCTION AREAS
Agricultural production is declining in The economic contribution of existing the greater Sydney region and pressure agricultural production land will be is increasing for more localised food supported and new opportunities production. Rural production land is facilitated (for example, intensive mainly located in the south west of agricultural production), particularly in the City. The land will be managed to high value niche products. BLUE AND GREEN NETWORK MAP ensure this finite resource is used to Urban development will be directed Regional biodiversity achieve a balance across a number of National Park Recreational open space away from high value agricultural connectivity functions: production areas. • agricultural production and rural High ecological value outside of development areas High ecological value within areas that may be developed industries; • buffers to land of high ecological Rural/agricultural land Area zoned for urban and other purposes
value or urban development; Proposed Conservation Reserves Major creeks, waterbodies, Lake and ocean • protection to scenic areas or places with a highly valued landscape; • opportunities for lifestyle; • economic activities such as tourism; and • protection of land with agricultural potential to assist in food security.
30 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 31 Aspirations, strategies and evaluation measures
Ensure we look ahead with purpose
A City committed to pursuing its full potential
32 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 33 ASPIRATION ASPIRATION A city of vibrant centres – A city to call home – where where people live, work, diverse housing options visit and play cater to everyone’s needs
Our centres will play vital economic and social roles in the City, providing The City will provide opportunities for substantial growth in new more opportunities to co-locate jobs, essential services, housing, housing, including the provision of a greater mix of housing options to transport options and recreational activities. accommodate our growing population.
STRATEGIES EVALUATION STRATEGIES EVALUATION How will we How will we know How will we How will we know achieve this? we’re on track? achieve this? we’re on track?
• Our planning policies facilitate • Increased percentage of the City’s • Work with industry to unlock more • Collaborate with other levels of • Increased percentage of medium growth, investment and activity residents who live within 400m of housing close to jobs, services, government to align plans for density housing in the City resulting in high quality a centre public transport, social and infrastructure to support the focus • Decreased percentage of development and local amenity recreational spaces, within and of development and activity in • Increased number of jobs in centres households for which rental around centres to meet residents’ and around existing centres and • Encourage well designed higher or mortgage payments are 30 • Increased number of businesses day-to-day needs identified housing release areas density development supported by per cent or more of household participating in the evening and appropriate infrastructure • Work with industry to deliver future • Ensure future rural residential income night time economy housing growth through infill housing is located where land is • Deliver streetscape and public • Housing land supply buffer of development in and around centres unlikely to be required for more domain improvements to attract 15 years is maintained to meet and train stations and new housing intensive urban purposes or rural private investment dwelling projections areas in the North West and South production and where it is feasible • Enhance urban greenery to address West Growth areas to service with infrastructure and • Reduced average household heat island effects maintain high conservation values water and energy consumption • Work with industry and government • Work with industry in delivering a agencies to ensure future housing is mix of uses such as housing, jobs, well serviced with infrastructure shopping, services, community • Implement policy to facilitate the facilities, public spaces, and supply of diverse housing that is transport sustainable, affordable and caters • Encourage more cycling and for a variety of life stages, lifestyles, walking in and around centres, demographics, and enables social lively footpath trading, and a robust inclusiveness night-time economy • Ensure new growth areas are highly • Explore the potential of establishing liveable and well serviced a Central Business District in Lake • Improve the pedestrian environment Macquarie to support access to neighbourhood destinations with a diversity of services and social purposes
34 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 35 ASPIRATION ASPIRATION A city of prosperity – that A city of close connections attracts investment, creates – where people, goods and jobs, and fosters innovation services move efficiently
Our economy will transform, mature and evolve to capitalise on emerging Expanding active transport networks; co-locating housing, jobs and services; maximising progress in industries, attract investment and create broader employment opportunities so technological change such as electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles and on-demand public transport; that we prosper. and planning and advocating for appropriate infrastructure will cater for population growth and stimulate investment within the City.
STRATEGIES EVALUATION STRATEGIES EVALUATION How will we How will we know How will we How will we know achieve this? we’re on track? achieve this? we’re on track?
• Encourage long term, sustainable • Ensure the urban environment will • Increased percentage of the • Prioritise co-location of services, • Ensure walking and cycling • Increased percentage of people economic growth that capitalises on support a thriving City that attracts workforce that lives and works in facilities, housing and jobs to reduce routes are of high-amenity, safe using public/active transport the City’s unique value propositions more people to live, work, invest the City trip distances, travel times and and comfortable to and around • Increased walkability of centres such as within our existing reliance on private motor vehicles centres and other important local • Provide sufficient land for a range • Increased proportion of people and immediate surrounds economic centres located in view of destinations of employment activities, including employed • Prioritise walking, cycling and the lake and close to our beaches, • Increased percentage of industrial precincts in accessible public transport over other • Capitalise on existing infrastructure as well the City’s potential for infill • Increased number of people dwellings within 10-minute walk locations transport modes in and around for freight while safeguarding development in highly liveable areas employed in key growth of a green space economic centres centres, residential and other • Encourage visitors to the City industries • Closely monitor changes in the local, sensitive areas from heavy vehicle • Increased percentage of through investment that supports • Provide for and encourage the national, and global economies, and • Increased economic activity in intrusion dwellings within 400m of a enhanced tourism products and provision of an efficient and respond appropriately knowledge intensive and non- frequently serviced public experiences convenient public transport network • Be involved in the planning and traditional industries, such as the transport node with a schedule • Target and encourage innovative delivery of the development of • Provide for more diverse industries, creative sector, and those that • Provide a road network which allows service at least every 30 minutes and skilled people to stay or move fast transport connections to key including renewables, emerging contribute to a ‘circular economy’ for the efficient movement of freight from 7am-7pm weekdays to the City for work destinations to the north and south and creative industries and the and commuters, while ensuring local • 15 years supply of well-located of the City • Double the length of shared • Facilitate new development within development of new small business streets maintain a social function employment generating land and paths in and around centres by our centres that encourages in the new economy and opportunities for social floor space 2030 from 2018 levels investment and concentrates more interaction • Engage with industry to increase employment opportunities closer to • Increased use of alternative • Decreased area of surface car flexibility for new tourism products • Provide strategic employment land where people live energy sources parking in strategic economic (buildings, hotels, spaces, and with direct access to major freight centres and economic centres • Facilitate complementary land uses activities) within strategic centres, routes within proximity of health precincts rural and environmental areas, and • A network of electric vehicle • Ensure employment areas have and other clusters the lake charging infrastructure is accessible transport connections available to support more • Maximise the potential of existing • Respond to and encourage • Ensure walking and cycling are easy sustainable transport options infrastructure and natural assets development of new education, and convenient ways of connecting to encourage investment, and health and innovation clusters with public transport economic and employment growth • Take advantage of the City’s position mid-way on the east coast axis between Melbourne and Brisbane
36 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 37 ASPIRATION ASPIRATION A city for progress and play – A city with a vast natural where people come together in environment - that is valued, natural and vibrant public spaces protected and enhanced
Our centres and neighbourhoods will provide a broader variety of Lake Macquarie City’s vast natural landscape and rich inclusive and vibrant public spaces where locals and visitors come heritage will be protected and enhanced, and there will be together to work, rest or play. more opportunities for people to enjoy it.
STRATEGIES EVALUATION STRATEGIES EVALUATION How will we How will we know How will we How will we know achieve this? we’re on track? achieve this? we’re on track?
• Provide safe, comfortable, social • Increased satisfaction with our • Avoid and minimise the impact • Increased percentage of the and engaging public spaces that facilities and public spaces of development on areas of high urban area with canopy coverage support a variety of uses located ecological value, while supporting • Increased percentage of dwellings • Increased percentage of new within and close to centres, and that opportunities to enjoy our natural within 800m of recreation or natural dwellings developed in the are well connected to residential areas area existing urban zoned area areas • Protect and enhance important • Each economic centre has a quality, • Increased catchment waterway • A variety of public spaces in and biodiversity areas and corridors safe, comfortable, social and and estuary health around centres incorporate ‘green engaging urban public space • Enable the growth of the agricultural spaces’ that provide comfort, • The percentage of high ecological sector by identifying rural areas to attractiveness, and natural habitat value areas is maintained be protected and by minimising the • Engage with industry to support number of new dwellings in these • Increased percentage of heritage economic development and areas buildings that are adaptively re- investment through the provision used rather than demolished • Enhance water quality and the of quality public spaces within health of aquatic areas in Lake • Decreased number of permits economic centres that are used by Macquarie, its tributaries, and issued for destruction of people day and night coastal streams Aboriginal sites and places • Create and activate public spaces • Provide more trees and gardens • No loss of rare or threatened through community events and within urban environments to species or ecological public art provide visual relief, comfort, shade, communities • Enhance community access to and urban habitat • Reduction in the rate of clearing sporting, recreational, cultural and • Integrate and connect natural areas of native vegetation community services and facilities with open spaces, including the lake • Ensure that natural areas are foreshore connected with urban areas and • Protect and enhance important there are more opportunities to cultural landscapes and places of enjoy the City’s natural environment Aboriginal significance • Promote innovative approaches to the adaptive re-use of heritage places and buildings
38 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 39 ASPIRATION A city of resilience – where the How will we report our people and places are responsive success in implementing and proactive to change the strategies?
Lake Macquarie will continue to be an adaptable city that has effective responses to social, climatic and economic change, and moves towards a more sustainable future.
STRATEGIES EVALUATION How will we How will we know achieve this? we’re on track? Monitor (qualitative and quantitative) Assess • Develop city and Council plans and • Increased number of plans policies to address uncertainty, so commenced and prepared in that: response to social, climatic and economic risks o decisions address short-term risks for the community; • Increased percentage of the City’s dwellings and businesses are o decisions keep future options located, designed and built to be open; sustainable and resilient to natural o decision-making uses hazards adaptation pathways and • Improved sustainability indicators, triggers as a guide; including net-zero emissions, in line o decisions avoid over investment with the NSW Climate Change Policy in possible at-risk assets or Framework areas; and o decisions avoid locking in a future course of action and allow for future opportunities. • Identify significant changes in global and local social, climatic and economic trends • Identify areas and issues that need adaptation plans Report • Prepare adaptation plans in response to social, climatic and economic trends • Identify diverse water supply options and opportunities and capacity to deliver services through times of constraint
40 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 41 Our aspirations and CHANGE strategies take on a tangible form
AND In areas of change GROWTH and growth A combination of words and maps paint a picture of our future
42 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 43 To Hunter Valley
VFT VFT To Minmi
AREAS OF To Newcastle University and John Hunter Hospital Glendale
Cardiff To Newcastle CHANGE City Centre
The information in this section More detailed plans will be These areas are Warners articulates how the aspirations and progressively developed to provide Bay Charlestown strategies take on a tangible form as highlighted on the information on the location change within the City. following maps as: and parameters of future urban development that will achieve the Mt Hutton Nine centres around the lake anchor • Strategic economic centres and aspirations and strategies sought by each of the areas that will be a focus economic centres - focus of change Imagine Lake Mac. These will assist for change and growth. These areas and growth to resolve any overlap between include three strategic economic Toronto development and environmental centres at Charlestown, Glendale and • urban intensification areas – opportunities and provide greater Morisset. In the future, they will play an developed areas that will evolve certainty about future land use. Belmont even greater role in the broader region. to include an increased density of housing, employment zones and The strategic economic centres are relevant infrastructure complemented by economic centres at Belmont, Cardiff, Mount Hutton, • future growth investigation areas – Swansea, Toronto and Warners Bay where we will explore opportunities as well as numerous local centres for future development. that will be the focal point of each corresponding neighbourhood. Swansea The areas in and around these centres will experience increased development and change. A limited number of other areas between centres present opportunity for change if appropriately Morisset investigated and managed. These areas will require a cooperative locality- wide approach to their planning and development for infrastructure and services along with biodiversity and heritage conservation.
To Sydney CENTRES HIERARCHY
Strategic economic centres are regionally significant centres providing a wide range of services, community facilities, retail and employment to a wide spatial catchment. Typical strategic centres include more intensive multilevel housing development than elsewhere in Lake Macquarie. Strategic centres often include a To Sydney transport interchange. Charlestown, Glendale and Morisset are strategic centres. CITY STRUCTURE AND OPPORTUNITY MAP Economic centres provide a range of services, community facilities, retail, and employment to a spatial catchment comprising a number of suburbs. They often include relatively intensive multilevel housing Strategic ecomonic centre Area zoned for urban and other Conceptual route Lower Private coal haul road development, particularly in centres near the lake. They are Belmont, Cardiff, Mount Hutton, Swansea, Hunter Freight corridor purposes Regional biodiversity Economic centre Toronto and Warners Bay. Conceptual route connectivity Heritage sensitive local centre Green network Very Fast Train (VFT) Proposed main road Airport Existing railway line Local centres typically provide a range of day-to-day services, community facilities, retail, and Future growth investigation area employment to a catchment usually comprising a suburb or group of neighbourhoods. They include Train station Existing main road High-capacity, high- such centres as Blacksmiths, Blackalls Park, Bonnells Bay, Cardiff South, Caves Beach, Dudley, Edgeworth, VFT indicative station Urban intensification area VFT frequency public transport Redhead, Teralba, Wangi Wangi, West Wallsend and Windale. Indicative major cycleway, shared pathway route Neighbourhoods are defined as places that may be part of a suburb or group of suburbs with which residents relate and undertake most of their social interaction.
44 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 45 AREAS OF CHANGE North East Growth Area Charlestown, Warners Bay, Belmont
The area from Charlestown to Belmont The Warners Bay Economic Centre offers opportunities for significant is supported by a business park growth. The economic centres of that provides new opportunities for Charlestown, Belmont and Mount innovative businesses, and supports Hutton and Warners Bay will continue large format indoor recreation and to evolve and intensify, providing a wide entertainment facilities. range of housing, employment, and The area may change in response to services. future flooding and sea level rise. The local centres and surrounding areas of Whitebridge, Kahibah and Windale will also change, providing more housing, employment, and necessary services to meet the needs of their growing communities. The health precinct at Gateshead will expand, capitalising on the regionally significant hospital and other allied health services.
KEY TO MAP
Strategic economic centre Area zoned for urban and other Existing railway line purposes Existing main road Economic centre Green network High-capacity, high- Local centre frequency public transport Train station Future growth investigation area Major cycleway, H Hospital shared pathway Adaptation planning area Hillsborough Road Business Park and Recreation/Entertainment Area Belmont Wetlands State Park
Urban intensification area
46 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 47 AREAS OF CHANGE
NORTH EAST GROWTH AREA
Charlestown Strategic Warners Bay Economic Hillsborough Road Windale Jewels Belmont North Precinct • The area is significantly • Jewels shopping centre continues • The Belmont North Industrial- Economic Centre Centre Business Park reinvigorated to provide a range of to provide a range of services to Business Precinct transitions to • Major redevelopment at • The centre transitions from affordable housing types close to meet the needs of the surrounding provide a range of flexible spaces Charlestown continues to attract its existing largely single-level and Recreation/ transport, employment, open space suburbs for a variety of employment uses intensive multi-storey commercial character to high quality multistorey Entertainment Area and services • More diverse housing types occur • The area is appropriately managed and residential development. development with increased • The Hillsborough Road precinct • The environment for walking and near the shopping centre to ensure conservation and The adjacent residential areas, commercial and residential will expand its focus on delivering cycling is dramatically improved enhancement of the adjoining particularly those to the east, development large format indoor recreation/ with a safe and convenient pathway Belmont Wetlands. The Belmont undergo redevelopment because • High quality public spaces are entertainment, bulky goods Belmont Economic Centre network throughout the area, with a • The role of the economic centre Wetlands State Park will be of the nearby jobs and services, as developed within the centre retailing and creative and direct link between the local centre, is enhanced, with an increase in enhanced and managed to become well as the high public transport particularly the town square innovative incubator spaces employment areas, school and open services to cater for the growing an environmental, tourism and accessibility between John Street and • Office and service based jobs are space population in and around the centre education asset • Charlestown has a regional role and Postmans Lane re-focused in economic centres • A native vegetation corridor • The pedestrian connection and broad catchment with a wide range • Existing residential areas near along Scrubby Creek combines amenity between the centre and the of commercial and community the centre are redeveloped for informal and formal walking with lake foreshore is improved services to meet contemporary additional housing density, rehabilitation and landscaping • Under-developed sites and land needs, in line with demand from the supported by active transport • The role of the local centre is between the lake and the Pacific increased local population infrastructure strengthened, providing a range of Highway will be redeveloped • The area provides diverse housing • Pedestrian and cyclist networks retail and services for local residents with multi-storey mixed use and to meet the needs of those wishing through and around the centre, • Medium density development is residential development to live closer to jobs and services including the surrounding located in and around the local • Brooks Parade will become a • Safe and convenient pedestrian residential area, are improved and centre pedestrian priority area with and cycle paths link the centre with extended to the waterfront and recreation and commercial activity, the adjacent housing areas and recreational facilities day and night the local centres at Kahibah and • The centre’s core defined by The Mount Hutton • Mount Hutton continues to provide • More intensive development in Whitebridge as well as the Fernleigh Esplanade, Lake Street, John Street a range of services to meet the the centre includes a pedestrian- Track and Great North Walk and King Street is high amenity and needs of the surrounding suburbs friendly environment along • A diverse range of businesses, pedestrian movement is prioritised • Mount Hutton shopping centre Macquarie, Maude and Ernest including medical, personal • Night time activity and tourism grows and evolves into a mixed use streets services, creative enterprises, develops, creating a lively location centre with retail, services, offices • Existing residential areas around government and community where people gather day and night and housing the centre will cater for significant services all take advantage of • The relationship between the centre • The aged housing development growth in housing to accommodate the clustering of activity and the and the foreshore is improved in the area has expanded and a growing population innovation precinct through appropriate urban design features a more diverse range • The Aboriginal cultural heritage • Significantly improved public and transport management of accommodation options and significance of the site of Reverend spaces, particularly along Pearson, • There is an interchange point for services for residents, as well as a Threkeld’s first mission will be Smart and Smith streets, provide local buses to high-frequency, wide range of jobs recognised, managed, conserved places for gatherings and relaxation high-capacity ‘spine’ services to and interpreted in cooperation with and pedestrian-friendly streets major destinations and interchange the local Aboriginal community • A well-connected centre provides points, such as Glendale, Belmont, Gateshead Health frequent public transport the University of Newcastle, Precinct connections into Newcastle, Newcastle City Centre and John • The hospital campus has expanded University of Newcastle Callaghan Hunter Hospital and includes a wide range of Campus, Lake Macquarie and John medical and allied health services Hunter Hospitals, and adjoining and other associated development, suburbs providing local services and jobs • Future growth is orientated to • It is easy to get to and easy to move the east of the Pacific Highway, in around and within the precinct conjunction with the redevelopment of underdeveloped sites throughout the centre • The environment for walking and cycling is dramatically improved, with a safe and convenient network throughout and surrounding the centre • A focus on medium-density housing is concentrated between Charlestown and the local centres of Kahibah and Whitebridge
48 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 49 AREAS OF CHANGE South East Growth Area Swansea and surrounds
It’s the place where the lake meets the Caves Beach Centre and Lake Macquarie Airport ocean. Where people flock to take in the water vistas, enjoy the beach and Tourism Precinct Precinct lake foreshores, or to explore the local • Further development occurs at • Further use and expansion of the bushland. Caves Beach local centre to support existing airport occurs, including the a broader mix of uses and to co-location of associated aviation There is already a higher concentration facilitate a tourism hub and tourism industries of accommodation and active tourism • Tourism providers, including • Sea level rise adaption and operators in this area compared accommodation and recreational biodiversity conservation will to other key areas, making this the opportunities, capitalise on its shape the future character and prime location for leveraging existing proximity to the lake, foreshore opportunities of the airport economic and natural landscapes to parks, beaches and bushland become the City’s tourism hub. Bordered by the lake and ocean, parts Swansea Catherine Hill Bay of this area will also experience change • Adaptation planning determines • Sensitive development occurs as we ensure it adapts appropriately to the opportunities for the suburbs within the State heritage-listed mitigate risks of flooding and sea level from Belmont South to Swansea, as conservation area whilst retaining rise. these are likely to be significantly its character affected by the impacts of climate • As the already approved change, particularly sea level rise. development occurs, Catherine Hill Council will continue to work with Bay may require a local centre to these communities so they can support the daily needs of residents adapt to changes in the natural • Urban areas are linked with each environment other, the beach and recreational • Any new development responds to trails in the National Park the effects of anticipated climate • Tourism opportunities develop and change and sea level rise which will become a feature of the area significantly affect the centre and other parts of Swansea • Sea level rise adaption and evacuation planning shape the future nature of the urban area while seeking to maintain the key functional components that are important to the community KEY TO MAP
Economic centre Area zoned for urban and other Existing main road Regional biodiversity purposes connectivity Local centre High-capacity, high- frequency public transport Heritage sensitive local centre Green network Major cycleway, Airport shared pathway Future growth investigation area
Adaptation planning area
Urban intensification area
50 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 51 AREAS OF CHANGE North West Growth Area Cardiff, Glendale and surrounds
The North West Growth Area’s central The area provides the potential for a and accessible location within the Very Fast Train (VFT) station, surrounded Greater Newcastle Metropolitan Area by significant and intense housing and provides opportunity to generate employment opportunities. significant jobs, housing, and services to Further opportunities associated with the broader region. Its proximity to the a VFT station are also likely, including rail line and access to the arterial road jobs and housing, and stabling and network provides a solid foundation maintenance areas. for a wide range of economic growth opportunities. High frequency, high capacity public transport and walking and cycling It includes brownfield, greenfield, facilities will provide direct access to natural and developed land stretching the Glendale Strategic Economic Centre. from Cardiff in the east to the M1 Motorway in the west, Speers Point in Vegetation ridges, side slopes and the the south and local government area natural scenic setting of this growth boundary in the north. area will be retained and enhanced. It provides areas of high ecological As mining and quarrying ceases, value and significant new opportunities disturbed land will be investigated for urban renewal, including for retail, to determine the preferred future services, affordable housing, advanced uses. Given its location and access manufacturing, office-based jobs, to infrastructure, this area has huge recreation and open space. potential for creating jobs in the new economy, and sustainable water and There is great opportunity to redevelop renewable energy projects. This could the Glendale to West Wallsend Urban be a showcase location for adaptive Intensification Corridor with medium reuse of brownfield areas. density housing to increase supply and diversity of housing types. There are also opportunities for more intensive mixed use and residential development within and adjacent to centres.
KEY TO MAP
Strategic ecomonic centre Area zoned for urban and other Conceptual route Lower Private coal haul road purposes Hunter Freight corridor Regional biodiversity Economic centre Conceptual route connectivity Green network Local centre Very Fast Train (VFT) Proposed main road Existing railway line Heritage sensitive local centre Future growth investigation area Airport Existing main road Adaptation planning area High-capacity, high- Train station frequency public transport VFT VFT indicative station Urban intensification area Major cycleway, LMTI Proposed Lake Macquarie shared pathway Transport Interchange
52 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 53 AREAS OF CHANGE
NORTH WEST GROWTH AREA
Glendale Strategic Cardiff Advanced Industry Munibung Precinct Cardiff Economic Centre Teralba Boolaroo - Speers Point • Mixed use, residential development, • Presence of the train station is • Conservation measures are • More intensive residential and Economic Centre Precinct and other employment capitalised through significantly implemented to protect the cultural employment development occurs • The existing retail based centre • Revitalisation of the area occurs opportunities occur in a range increasing housing density close heritage values of the centre in and around the Boolaroo and evolves into a higher intensity urban through a flexible planning of scales to the station with improved • More intensive residential Speers Point centres precinct supporting an intensive mix framework supporting a renewed • Large format retail developed in pedestrian and cyclist networks development occurs in and around • New development in Boolaroo of retail, commercial, housing, and focus on leveraging a circular select locations • There is ample park and ride the centre that is complementary complements the heritage values in community activities economy and expanding advanced • Improved amenity, pedestrian and facilities in and around the train and sympathetic to the heritage the area • Opportunities for development of manufacturing and technology cyclist access to and around the station values • The amenity of the local centres are smart and sustainable infrastructure industries railway station and investigate • The pedestrian-friendly character • The local centre is reinvigorated with enhanced such as stormwater harvesting and • Transport accessibility is improved development potential of Cockle of the main street of the centre improved amenity, pedestrian, and • Speers Point Park is the premier electric vehicle charging are realised as a result of the Glendale Drive- Creek foreshore land near the is reinforced, as well as making cyclist connectivity park for the City, offering a range • A network of public spaces is Pennant Street road link and the railway station use of the Winding Creek corridor • New economic uses and urban of high-level sporting, cultural and created to provide a formal extension of Munibung Road to • Munibung Road extension through as pedestrian, cycle linkage and development evolve for the former recreational opportunities community focus and a place for Cockle Creek to Cockle Creek provides improved recreational assets mining lands and the existing • Cockle Creek forms part of a network workers, visitors and residents to • Intensive mixed use development connectivity with the Cardiff • Increased housing and employment- industrial lands of rehabilitated green spaces gather and relax occurs adjacent to the Lake Advanced Manufacturing Precinct based development continues in the • Improved and more direct transport extending from the lake to, and • Elite sports, casual sports and Macquarie Transport Interchange • Improved scenic amenity, ridgeline, walkable catchment of the centre links, including potential adaptive along, Winding Creek recreation facilities at the Hunter native vegetation corridor of and railway station re-use of the local heritage rail line • Pedestrian and cycle links between Sports Centre are further developed Munibung Hill and facilitate • Improved amenity and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, are Boolaroo, recreational areas and • Lake Macquarie Transport appropriate access of recreational areas and connection established between Teralba and lake foreshore are improved Interchange is completed, including • The Aboriginal cultural heritage to the centre and areas where Barnsley and across Cockle Creek a public transport interchange, significance of Munibung Hill residential density increases • Conservation measures are smart vehicle charging hub and is recognised, conserved and • Heritage significance and values are implemented to protect natural extension of Glendale Drive to interpreted in cooperation with the retained and improved areas, creeks and important Munibung Road local Aboriginal community wetlands, while recreation and • Improved connections for cyclists • Cockle Creek riparian area and enjoyment of these assets occurs and pedestrians within and wetlands are rehabilitated connecting to the centre • Additional tertiary education providers are established • Winding Creek riparian area is rehabilitated and provides a passive recreation resource
54 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 55 AREAS OF CHANGE
NORTH WEST GROWTH AREA
Glendale-Argenton Renewal Precinct
NORTH WEST LAKE MACQUARIE Munibung Precinct Glendale Retail Lake Macquarie City Council will: and Sport Precinct
• align local plans to facilitate urban renewal through Edgeworth Cameron Park West Wallsend Desired role in Greater Newcastle increased housing density and mixed-use including large format retail and office uses. • Future mixed use expansion of the • The new local centre close to • New development complements• Large the format retail, advanced manufacturing, office-based jobs and open space with • explore options for Park and Ride at Cockle Creek centre is encouraged along Arnott George Booth Drive will service character of West Wallsend Heritageregionally significant catchment. Train Station with Transport for NSW. Street, creating a pedestrian- this area with retail, business, Conservation Area • Urban renewal precinct, meeting demand for affordable medium-density housing and Cardiff Advanced Industry Precinct friendly environment away from community uses and medical • Human-scale, pedestrian-friendlyenhanced lifestyle amenities. Lake Macquarie City Council will: Main Road services co-located with medium- development occurs within the T • Strategic gateway to Greater Newcastle. • expand business and light industrial uses through T • A strong relationship exists between density housing centre along Carrington and Withers implementation of the Cardiff-M1 opportunity study. the centre, residential areas, • The area will grow to support an streets 4,800 3,700 Teralba • strengthen the capacity of co-working and maker Precinct recreational facilities and Brush increased residential population • The Aboriginal cultural heritageTarget s spaces to support innovation in the manufacturing sector, and review planning controls to facilitate this. Cardiff Creek, including pedestrian and with more diverse and affordable significance of Butterfly Caves,203 6 Cardiff Advanced Mixed-use (Additional) Industry Precinct cyclist connectivity housing and recreational uses Mount Sugarloaf and Mount Cardiff Mixed-use Precinct Munibung Precinct Jobs D w ellings Precinct • Pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure Sugarloaf Range is recognised, Lake Macquarie City Council will: Teralba Precinct • align local plans to increase opportunities for walkable, within the walkable catchment managed, conserved and Boolaroo - Lake Macquarie City Council, Department of Planning mixed-use communities centered around public Speers Point of the local centre is enhanced, interpreted in cooperationand Environmentwith the and Transport for NSW will: transport infrastructure. Precinct
and Cocked Hat Creek corridor local Aboriginal community• identify infrastructure required to increase • work with Department of Planning and Environment is rehabilitated and used • West Wallsend takes advantageopportunities for manufacturing, light industry to adjust planning controls to encourage more and emerging new economy industries to medium-density housing. for pedestrian and cycleway of the adventure tourism replace employment opportunities lost as Glendale Retail and Sport Precinct connectivity opportunities, including accessmining to activities cease in the area. T • develop plans for transport connectivity Lake Macquarie City Council will: • Cameron Park employment area mountain bike trails in the Wataganand appropriate recreational facilities. • support the expansion of the Stockland retail centre. capitalises on its location at the and Mount Sugarloaf RangesLake Macquarie and City Council will: junction of the M1, Link Road and the Richmond Vale Rail Trail • enable diversification of employment opportunities. LAKE • align local plans to support commercial MACQUARIE Hunter Expressway • The values of West Wallsend and industrial development that • seek support for enhanced elite sports area and leverages existing rail infrastructure. casual sports and recreation facilities at the • The existing local centre on Heritage Conservation Area are Hunter Sports Centre. Department of Planning and Environment and T Northlakes Drive continues to protected and enhancedLake Macquarie City Council will: • work to improve utilisation of surplus public lands. • improve pedestrian and cycle access. offer an increased range of day- • investigate suitable economic reuse of to-day services to the surrounding mining land. Hunter Development Corporation, Transport for NSW and Lake Macquarie City Council will: neighbourhoods Boolaroo - Speers Point Precinct • work to investigate medium-densitty and mixed-use development. Lake Macquarie City Council will: Catalyst Area State Road School • protect and expand the recreational Glendale-Argenton Renewal Precinct and environmental amenity of the North West Lake Macquarie Cockle Creek and Speers Point foreshores Lake Macquarie City Council will: 2017 Local Road Open Space/Parkland to support the regionally significant • align local plans to facilitate a hub around Speers Point Park. Catalyst Area Boundary Priority Multimodal Corridor Golf Course Glendale TAFE.
• promote a walkable, boutique retail T Train Station Railway Waterway centre and increased housing density. Hunter Development Corporation, Transport for NSW and Lake Macquarie City Council will: • work with Destination NSW to stage major Cycleway/Shared Pathway events to support the growth of tourism. • work to investigate medium-densitty and mixed-use development. North• work to deliver West improved Lakepublic transport Macquarie Catalyst Area infrastructure, and prepare an infrastructure plan to Thisbe area actioned. presents opportunities for • Be a focus for an improved local • Support for critical infrastructure XX Metropolitan Plan 2036 transformational urban development pedestrian and cycle network, with investments is provided and in a convenient central location direct links to cycleways such as existing infrastructure is leveraged with considerable existing economic the Eleebana to Wallsend shared to increase the opportunities endowments. pathway for growth in manufacturing, • A focus of intense urban • Contain the Lake Macquarie light industry, and technology development in north west Lake Transport Interchange at Glendale based industries. Growth in these Macquarie • Comprise affordable medium sectors will replace employment • A strategic economic centre created density housing occurring around opportunities lost as a result by the combination of: the corridors to Cardiff, Edgeworth, of economic restructuring and - intensive mixed use Argenton and Speers Point as mining activities wind down, development; • Ensure we protect and enhance creating new jobs for our residents - public and active transport that the natural features of this area • Provide regionally significant is easy to access; including Munibung Hill, the lake recreational, open space and - large and small-format retail; and its foreshore, biodiversity cultural facilities - advanced manufacturing and corridors, wetlands, Cockle, Winding, urban services; Brush, Slatey, Burkes, Cocked Hat - office and services employment; and Diega creeks and riparian areas - and well connected recreational • Include investigation of significant urban facilities and open space with a expansion from Teralba to the M1, regionally significant catchment. and north to the Newcastle Link Road 56 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 57 AREAS OF CHANGE Toronto and surrounds
• A focus of activity for west Lake Macquarie, delivering a range of Toronto Economic Centre Rathmines • The relationship between the • Adaptive re-use of the RAAF Catalina community, cultural services, retail waterfront and the centre is Base and adjoining structures and employment improved improves cultural, heritage, • A diverse range of businesses, • The foreshore is rejuvenated to recreation, sustainability and medical, personal services, support community and recreation economic outcomes creative enterprises, government uses, with some commercial and and community services, all take tourism development advantage of the clustering of Fassifern Rail Station • Increased high quality multistorey • New land uses are investigated, in activity commercial and residential coordination with a reduction of • A lively centre with a focus on high- development are in the centre mining activities, with consideration quality, multi-storey mixed used • The Boulevarde is high amenity of the nearby Fassifern train station, developments, with diverse housing where pedestrian movement is north-south rail loading loop and close to services prioritised private haul road linking the colliery • A high-amenity, waterfront • A plaza provides a sheltered and Eraring Power Station to the precinct supporting recreational community place for workers, south and community uses with some visitors and residents to gather • Disturbed areas are rehabilitated, supporting commercial and tourism or relax, potentially between decontaminated and reused development Courthouse Lane and The Boulevard. • Existing and future residential areas • The human-scale, pedestrian- This plaza will be a vibrant place at around the train station change to friendly environment and the all times of the day surrounded by incorporate more medium density significance of the Toronto Heritage cafes, restaurants and shops residential development Precinct will be conserved and • Walking and cycling in and enhanced surrounding the centre is safe and • The Toronto West Industrial area Awaba convenient, with connections along • Opportunities are investigated experiences an increase and the Fassifern Greenway to Fassifern to increase urban development diversification in jobs train station and recreational areas close to the Awaba train station • Housing and mixed-use along Stony Creek and for the creation of an Awaba redevelopment occurs adjacent • Growth in jobs and activity is Conservation Area to the public transport and active associated with the police station, transport corridors from Toronto courthouse and private hospital to Fassifern, especially around the • The centre provides an interchange Blackalls Park centre and Fassifern point for local buses to high- train station frequency, high-capacity ’spine’ services to major destinations and interchange points, such as Glendale, Belmont, the University of Newcastle, Newcastle City Centre KEY TO MAP and John Hunter Hospital, as well as to the Fassifern train station Economic centre Area zoned for urban and other Conceptual route Lower purposes Hunter Freight corridor Local centre Conceptual route Train station Green network Very Fast Train (VFT) Waste management facility Existing railway line Future growth investigation area Existing main road Adaptation planning area High-capacity, high- frequency public transport
Urban intensification area Major cycleway, shared pathway Private coal haul road Proposed conservation reserve
58 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 59 AREAS OF CHANGE South West Growth Area Morisset and surrounds
The Cooranbong, Morisset and Morisset Strategic Cooranbong Wyee areas have considerable • The vibrancy of the local centre opportunities for urban Economic Centre is enhanced with more intensive • A diverse range of businesses, development. It is also identified in development to increase services medical, personal services, to cater for the growing population the Greater Newcastle Metropolitan creative enterprises, government • Additional residential areas Plan to be a location of significant and community services, all take support housing choice through population and employment advantage of the clustering of development of a range of housing growth. activity types, close to local centres • More intensive multi-storey • Riparian corridor areas along Dora, Its position near the Central Coast, commercial, mixed use and Jigadee, Burnt Bridge and Felled M1 Pacific Motorway and Northern residential development are in the Timber creeks are conserved and Rail Line makes this area a sensible centre and close to the train station rehabilitated. location for growth and affordable • The Morisset Square, a bustling local • Cooranbong takes advantage of the and diverse housing development hub provides community uses, cafes adventure tourism opportunities and commercial uses. Yambo and with easy access to nearby associated with the Watagan Dora Streets are high amenity and population and employment areas Mountains pedestrian movement is prioritised and main transport infrastructure. • Expansion of the Avondale College • There is an interchange point for provides a more diverse range of transport, local buses and park education opportunities • Significant new urban release and ride to the heavy rail system to • The heritage significance of areas south of Morisset rail Glendale, Newcastle, Central Coast the Cooranbong Seventh Day station, at North Cooranbong and and Sydney Adventist Heritage Precinct and at Wyee have a mix of housing • A focus for an improved local iconic Sanitarium factory site types and community services pedestrian and cyclist transport is maintained, enhanced and and infrastructure to support local network, including direct links to interpreted through adaptive re-use community needs cycleways to the Morisset Peninsula and development • Trinity Point is developed into a and Cooranbong significant tourism asset, supporting • The nearby industrial area is a growing visitor economy including expanded to capitalise on its Wyee • The service role of the local centre conference facilities, restaurants access to the M1 Motorway is reinforced with an increase in and a marina • Development opportunities, services to cater for the growing • Once operations cease, Eraring including the potential expansion population Power Station is remediated and of commercial and residential • Additional residential areas are repurposed to another economic development to the south of the developed with a range of housing use, such as renewable energy Morisset train station, are realised KEY TO MAP types, particularly near the local generation • A traffic bypass for Dora Street centre and railway station while • Wangi Power Station is adaptively is investigated to improve the maintaining local ecological Strategic ecomonic centre Area zoned for urban and other Conceptual route Regional biodiversity re-used to take advantage of its amenity of the centre, taking into purposes Very Fast Train (VFT) connectivity corridors Local centre infrastructure and location consideration the implications for Existing railway line • High-amenity cycle and pedestrian Train station Green network • The area has important the development of land to the Existing main road linkages run between new Agricultural production environmental assets that have south of the Morisset Train Station Future growth investigation area residential, recreation, and High-capacity, high- been maintained and enhanced, • The heritage significance of the Tertiary Education Facility frequency public transport commercial areas and the train such as biodiversity corridors to the State-listed Morisset Hospital Adaptation planning area Major cycleway, station Central Coast and along the western site is maintained, enhanced and shared pathway • Mannering Creek and its riparian side of the local government area interpreted through adaptive re-use Urban intensification area corridors are rehabilitated and • The rural production areas are and development conserved protected for agricultural use such • Quality recreational areas are as the Martinsville and Mandalong provided to cater for the growing valleys community
60 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 61 TRANSITIONING OUR CITY
NOW 2050
Predominately single dwelling homes More balanced mix of housing types
95 disconnected communities Interconnected communities with strong regional links
Reliant on two major industries Diverse industry and employment
Lake and water quality is maintained Lake and water quality is enhanced
A strong partner for public and private Facilities that add value to quality of life and unlocked investment in infrastructure investment and economic development potential
In 2050, Lake Macquarie will be one of the most liveable, productive, adaptable and sustainable cities in Australia.
62 IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND IMAGINE LAKE MAC 2050 AND BEYOND 63 IMAGINE LAKE MAC © Lake Macquarie City Council (02) 4921 0333 lakemac.com.au [email protected] facebook.com/lakemaccity twitter.com/lakemac instagram.com/ourlakemac Prepared by Lake Macquarie City Council 126-138 Main Road Speers Point NSW 2284 Box 1906 Hunter Region Mail Centre NSW 2310