Newcastle council urged to save 1929 Marcus Clark facade with zoning boost
Newcastle can save a 1929 Marcus Clark facade by offering zoning relief for a taller building.
Newcastle's hidden 1929 Marcus Clark facade has been buried under metal cladding since 1964. Now it faces demolition.
Council approved the plan in December, but the heritage front still stands and can be repaired. A proposal suggests council could save it by allowing developer 711 Hunter Street to build higher than current 31-storey zoning limits.
The strategy is simple: offer extra profit potential in return for keeping the listed facade. Developers generally want to demolish old facades, even in good condition.
Building a new front is cheaper and takes less time. The site sits near Newcastle Interchange, which is ideal for denser housing.
State policies now encourage more homes in city centres.
Why it mattersHeritage advocates want the distinctive facade preserved. A deal can protect Newcastle's older architecture. It also allows more homes on well-located land.
AustraliaNewcastle residents could gain more housing options on prime land. The proposal tests whether heritage conservation and development can both succeed through negotiation.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 6 d ago
