GAME CENTRE
Friday 4 July, Newcastle – The Hunter Indoor Sports Centre project has reached a planning milestone, with the Response to Submissions (RtS) being lodged with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. The Department will now review the RtS before undertaking the next step in the process.
This state-significant facility is set to replace the aging Newcastle Basketball Centre and will secure the long-term future of indoor sport in the region. Beyond its sporting benefits, the project plays a key role in advancing the Broadmeadow Place Strategy, paving the way for essential new housing and urban renewal in the area.
The RtS responds to feedback gathered during the public exhibition phase, which concluded late last year. The Project Coordinator for Newcastle Basketball, Simon Haire said:
“Our project team has continued engagement with government agencies and made adjustments to the site layout to address primary concerns. By shifting the building further west and adjusting vehicle movements, we’ve tackled key issues such as flood hazards and traffic flow.”
Further, in response to feedback, draft a Flood Emergency Response Plan and Traffic Event Management Plans have also been developed to demonstrate how these matters will be handled.
“While not typically required at this stage, we’ve taken extra steps to provide a greater level of detail to alleviate any concerns,” Mr Haire added.
Some submissions also questioned the site selection process. However, the recent Independent Review City of Newcastle by Davidson found no issues with the selection process, affirming the project’s sound planning foundations.
General Manager of Newcastle Basketball, Sara Jiear said that:
“This is a vital community project that will break down barriers to participation in sport and physical activity. It will support a range of sports including basketball, volleyball, badminton, netball, futsal, and pickleball. The facility is designed to be fully accessible and inclusive, ensuring people of all ages and abilities can be physically and socially active in a community atmosphere.”
