Former Empire Hotel site goes back on the market

The Hunter Development Corporation says the iconic Empire Hotel site in Newcastle West is again up for sale, but it has abandoned plans to require developers to build affordable housing.

It comes almost two months after a plans for affordable housing on the site fell through because the parties couldn't agree on final contract terms for the unit development.

The HDC says should the new development include a residential component, it would be interested in acquiring units as affordable housing.

The Empire Hotel was demolished more than four years ago.

HDC general manager, Bob Hawes said the large, prominent site has great potential.

"This is a large site of some 2,079m2 at the corner of Steele and Hunter Streets", he said.

"The site is zoned B3 Commercial Core and could potentially accommodate residential use subject to the development including commercial floor space.

"Despite unsuccessful earlier attempts at redevelopment, there is no doubt this site will contribute to the wider program of revitalisation already occurring in the Newcastle city centre.

"HDC is determined to see action on the site as soon as possible."

The Call for Proposals process will be open for six weeks.

Source : ABC News   1st September 2015