Hunter Region plan proposes 68,000 new homes in growth corridor

A new development plan for the Hunter Region aims to establish a growth corridor that could serve as the area’s ‘second economic centre’. The plan, proposed by the Singleton, Maitland, and Cessnock councils, outlines the creation of approximately 68,150 homes across 14 precincts within a 15,000-hectare area stretching from Anambah to Branxton.

The proposal has drawn mixed reactions. The Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) praised the plan for showing ‘genuine aspiration’. However, some local land-holders have expressed concerns regarding security and the impact of denser development on existing farming operations. Specifically, residents have raised questions about how increased residential proximity might affect livestock management and the overall character of rural land.