Port Stephens Council has endorsed a major planning proposal to unlock land at 46 to 54 Ferodale Road and 754 Medowie Road, Medowie.
The proposal changes the 7.7-hectare site from rural use to enable new homes and local shops and services for the growing community, while setting aside dedicated conservation land. Located in the heart of Medowie, this development will help define the town centre and provide housing near local shops. This decision directly unlocks an estimated 194 new homes in alignment with Council's Local Housing Strategy.
Mayor Leah Anderson said the proposal will help address pressing local housing needs while providing clear social, economic and environmental benefits.
"By supporting this proposal, Council is proactively meeting the needs of our fast-growing community and increasing land supply when it is needed most," Mayor Anderson said.
"This decision delivers smaller lot sizes and more affordable housing choices close to schools, essential services and major employment hubs. It will boost our local economy through new jobs and business opportunities while crucially protecting the environment by permanently preserving natural green corridors and waterways," Mayor Anderson added.
The proposal will deliver a range of medium‑density homes to suit different families and households. Residents will benefit from easy access to major employers including Newcastle Airport, Tomago and RAAF Base Williamtown.
The project also safeguards the environment by rezoning the site's local waterway area to C2 Environmental Conservation. This step permanently protects high-value land, preserves native plants and ensures local wildlife can safely move through the area.
Community feedback helped shape the final plan during its public exhibition window. Following submissions from residents and state agencies, Council added requirements for developers to deliver detailed Vegetation Management Plans to restore and maintain these green corridors. The updated plan also avoids flood-prone land and seeks improved drainage outcomes across the site.
The rezoning sets new land use zones, lot sizes and building heights for the site but does not approve specific developments. Detailed designs will be assessed through the development application process before construction can begin.
For more details, visit https://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/development/place-plans/medowie-place-plan
