Plans to transform The Station into a premier tourism, retail and hospitality precinct are steaming ahead.
Developer Ashbridge Capital has lodged a development application (DA) to start restoration works at the heritage-listed site in Newcastle.
The first stage of proposed works focuses on building upgrades and repairs, opening the door for its internal spaces to be refurbished and used for dining, retail, events, a multipurpose function room and boutique accommodation.
Limited details are available on City of Newcastle's DA tracker, but the estimated cost of the works appears to be more than $7.5 million.
Ashbridge Capital founder and partner Vishant Narayan said the proposed conservation repairs would ensure the site's longevity as a Newcastle landmark.
"Ashbridge Capital is proud to be entrusted with this very significant project and we're looking forward to this next exciting step in The Station's rich history and sharing this progress with the community," he said.
If City of Newcastle approves the project, work could begin as soon as 2027 when the existing business tenants will depart.
The work is expected to take about 12 to 18 months with new venues to start operating once it is complete.
As part of a 99-year lease agreement, Ashbridge Capital will fully restore and operate The Station.
The Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) will own the site on behalf of the state government.
As the landlord, HCCDC will oversee the project to ensure it serves the community and celebrates the site's rich history.
HCCDC chief executive Valentina Misevska said they welcomed the next step in The Station's journey.
"These works are a strong start towards restoring and transforming this much-loved local landmark into a landmark space for the community to enjoy for decades to come," she said.
The former Newcastle rail station was built in the 1800s, and features impressive Victorian Italianate architecture.
It was the only regional station with a silver service dining room for passengers.
Heritas principal heritage architect Linda Babic said the significance of The Station lies in not only the building, but its enduring role in the life of Newcastle.
"The development application now lodged with City of Newcastle respects and celebrates that legacy, while laying the foundations for an exciting new chapter in its history," she said.
For the rest of 2026, the site will continue to be a welcoming platform for community activities and events, including temporary pop-ups, play areas, retail, markets and music.
