Development application signals next phase of heritage restoration at The Station
The Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) welcomes the lodgement of a development application by Ashbridge Capital to progress restoration works at The Station Newcastle.
This first stage of proposed capital works at the heritage-listed site will focus on building upgrades and essential conservation repairs so that all the internal spaces can be refurbished and activated with a carefully selected mix of new uses. These will include restaurant and cafe dining, specialty retail, events, a multi-purpose function room, and boutique short-stay accommodation.
As part of a lease agreement, Ashbridge Capital will fully restore and subsequently operate The Station as a premier tourism, retail and hospitality precinct.
HCCDC will remain the owner of The Station on behalf of NSW Government. As landlord, HCCDC will oversee its journey towards a carefully planned future use that serves the community and celebrates its history.
The former Newcastle rail station is an important part of the city’s history. Built in the 1800s, it features impressive Victorian Italianate architecture and was the only regional station with a silver service dining room for passengers.
Subject to planning approval by City of Newcastle, the works are expected to begin in 2027, at which point the existing business tenants will depart.
In the meantime, and throughout 2026, the site will continue to be a welcoming platform for the community activities and events that have flourished during our temporary activation including pop-ups, play areas, retail, markets and music.
Read more about the exciting next phase of The Station’s revitalisation at hccdc.nsw.gov.au/station-future
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HCCDC Chief Executive, Valentina Misevska said:
“We welcome this next step in The Station’s journey and are really pleased to see Ashbridge Capital focus on restoring these spaces that hold so much history.
“These works are a strong start towards restoring and transforming this much-loved local landmark into a landmark space for the community to enjoy for decades to come.”
Ashbridge Capital Founder and Partner, Vishant Narayan said:
“Ashbridge Capital is proud to be entrusted with this very significant project and we’re looking forward to this next exciting step in The Station’s rich history and sharing this progress with the community.
“The proposed conservation repairs and maintenance to The Station’s heritage-listed buildings are an important foundation for the site’s longevity as a Newcastle landmark.”
Heritas Principal Heritage Architect Linda Babic said:
“The significance of The Station lies not only in its buildings, but in its enduring role in the life of Newcastle.
“The development application now lodged with City of Newcastle respects and celebrates that legacy while laying the foundations for an exciting new chapter in its history.”
Images and artist's impressions available here
Media:
- Luke Robertson (HCCDC) | 0436 286 408
- Vishant Narayan (Ashbridge Capital) | info@ashbridge.com.au