Home in Place selected for Rail Bridge Row project

Home in Place has been appointed by City of Newcastle as the preferred partner to deliver a significant affordable housing project on the former heavy rail corridor at 280 Hunter Street.

The decision, endorsed by Councillors following a rigorous two-stage selection process with independent probity oversight, reflects the trust placed in Home in Place to deliver a project designed to help address Newcastle’s housing crisis.

City of Newcastle Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Bath said Home in Place’s capability and track record made them the right partner for the project.

“Home in Place has demonstrated the capability, experience and vision needed to bring this project to life,” Mr Bath said. “Their strong financial foundations and proven success in delivering affordable housing gave us great confidence in selecting them to partner with us on this landmark project.”

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Asset Advisory Committee, Cr Declan Clausen, echoed this confidence, highlighting the competitive procurement process and Home in Place’s established experience in delivering high-quality, well-located homes.

The site, known as Rail Bridge Row, is the final piece of the former heavy rail corridor to be redeveloped. Home in Place’s concept design proposes 48 affordable units in a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments, ground floor retail space and 37 car spaces, as well as a new laneway and a cycleway link.

City of Newcastle has already undertaken extensive geotechnical, environmental and cultural heritage investigations. A development application for mine investigation and remediation works is under assessment, with grout-based remediation expected to begin in early 2026, subject to approval.

Home in Place Interim Group Chief Executive Officer Lyndall Robertshaw said the organisation is honoured to be trusted with a project of this scale and significance in Newcastle.

“We are proud to be working with the City of Newcastle to increase affordable housing in Newcastle. Each new home means more people will have the chance to live in safe, secure and affordable housing, and that is at the very heart of what we do.”

Ms Robertshaw said the location of the project reinforces the shared commitment to delivering housing close to essential services and opportunities.

“Access to affordable housing is vital for building a diverse and thriving city. Projects such as Rail Bridge Row demonstrate the dedication of Home in Place and the City of Newcastle to providing affordable homes near essential facilities, services, infrastructure, schools and employment opportunities.”

“With affordability in the private market continuing to deteriorate, affordable housing projects like this one are crucial. And to be working in partnership with the City of Newcastle on a major project in the same area where our story began four decades ago reflects how deeply connected we remain to our local roots and to the ongoing need for safe, affordable housing.”

Rail Bridge Row forms part of City of Newcastle’s long-term plan to support a growing, diverse and inclusive community, with the city preparing for a population increase of more than 40,000 people by 2041.