On Tuesday, councillors gave supported the implementation of the the Destination Management Plan (DMP) as well as the Maitland Gaol Development Plan and Site Master Plan.

The two plans were developed with extensive community, industry and government body consultation, and aim to provide a blueprint for building on the city's tourism industry. Maitland Mayor Loretta Baker said the plans would "provide direction" for the city's tourism. "We're so excited to move forward with these important and ambitious plans that will provide direction for the future of Maitland Gaol and Maitland as a hero destination in NSW," she said.

The Destination Management Plan sets out the strategic directions and the necessary actions for implementation in the short, medium and long term to position Maitland as a desirable place to live, an easy place to work, a welcoming place to visit and a wise place to invest.

While the Maitland Gaol Development Plan and Site Master Plan includes a range of proposed plans for the future of the former gaol including free visitor access to parts of the site, boutique accommodation and potential for a future 4 star hotel and an activity hub including upgraded café with internal connection to the Gaol.

It also includes plans for a new 200 seat theatre, centralised amenities and a new guard tower experience.

Speaking on the Maitland Gaol master plan, Independent councillor Peter Garnham said it was an "exciting" opportunity for the iconic tourist spot.

"The things that can happen at the gaol and the benefit to not just the gaol but the whole of Maitland that can come from this ... It's very exciting," he said.