The last vacant parcels of state-owned land in Honeysuckle should comprise developments that attract people, are architecturally significant, have public spaces and recognise heritage, according to a Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation report.
The Honeysuckle Ideas Outcomes Report, released today, builds on community engagement conducted late last year regarding the future use of two development sites on Honeysuckle Drive.
One is a 2.18-hectare harbourside lot. The other, adjacent to the light rail depot, is almost a hectare in size and includes the former Wickham School of Arts building.
"What we heard is that people truly want something special," HCCDC chief operating officer Valentina Misevska said.
"People told us they want to see something iconic, where design and excellence mark Honeysuckle and the emerging CBD as a landmark gateway that connects the renowned Hunter Region to the global market.
"This really aligns with what we want to achieve - to create great places where people choose to visit, play and work in an ever vibrant and dynamic destination."
The community consultation emphasised social, economic and environmental outcomes. The report compiled themes and listed development objectives to guide the future divestments.
"Creating a magnetic mixed-use destination; creating a great place that is connected; respecting and acknowledging heritage and culture; being people focused and accessible; and demonstrating excellence in design and sustainability are the basis of our five objectives," Ms Misevska said.
The Honeysuckle Ideas Outcomes Report is available on the corporation's website.
