Plans for a shopping centre on the old sports field in Raymond Terrace may be on the agenda again more than a decade after being put into hiatus.
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Port Stephens Council owns land behind Raymond Terrace Library and adjacent to MarketPlace that in the early- to mid-2000s was slated for another major shopping precinct.
Impacts of the Global Financial Crisis delayed such plans but now Port Stephens Council may be exploring whether the option is viable again
The council did not immediately confirm such plans but did say it would be open to development proposals for the rarely used land, which is zoned B3 Commercial Core.
"Although we do not have any specific development or outcome in mind for the site, we would be happy to consider proposals for uses permissible in this type of zone," a Port Stephens Council spokesperson said.
The idea of a new shopping precinct in Raymond Terrace was welcomed by west ward councillor Giacomo Arnott.
"I am really keen for more shopping opportunities in Raymond Terrace," he said.
"The sports field is prime land in the town centre and I am excited to see what happens to it, especially if it creates more jobs in Raymond Terrace."
It comes as the council prepares to start delivering the early stages of the 20-year Raymond Terrace Public Domain Plan, which was endorsed at the February 23 meeting.
Upgrades to William Street are slated for later in the year.
"In 2020, we asked the community about their vision for Raymond Terrace - what they love and what needs to be enhanced. We heard that Raymond Terrace needs more shady spots, improved footpaths and linkages," the council's community recreation coordinator, Brock Lamont, said.
"Thanks to funding from our Council's PS2020 projects and a number of successful grant applications, we'll be installing new seating, more shade and better links between key places in 2021.
"We'll be going out to speak to businesses and the community in the coming months to let people knows what works are planned."
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Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
