PLANS for a low-key development of the vacant Nobbys headland buildings were showcased by the business advocacy group Newcastle NOW at last night’s Newcastle City Council meeting.
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Newcastle NOW is funded by a special rates levy on Newcastle CBD businesses and executive manager Michael Neilson told the meeting that $180,000 had been spent doing up the dilapidated buildings on the headland.
Another $300,000 worth of help had been given through in-kind contributions by various businesses.
Mr Neilson, Newcastle NOW board member Kris Leck and architect Jon Webber explained how four garages on the headland would be knocked down to make way for very low-key developments, including two viewing platforms and a children’s play area.
A number of councillors endorsed the work, with Labor’s Nuatali Nelmes contrasting it with previous plans she said had been criticised because ‘‘the community saw them as privatisation of public space’’.
Newcastle NOW had been granted a five-year lease with an option for another five years from the state government. While nothing was finalised, an interpretive centre and gallery, a kiosk and reception area and some overnight accommodation were being considered. Mr Neilson said more cash was needed to finish the project.
