Resting on the banks of the Hunter River, Maitland is a hot spot for foodies and artists seeking inspiration from its rich history and picturesque landscapes. Located just two hours from Sydney, it’s long been a perfect weekend destination away from the big smoke.
Now, it’s one of the fastest-growing regions in NSW. Affordable housing, employment opportunities and rapid enhancements to infrastructure lead the way in the city’s thriving expansion.
Maitland’s landscapes charm visitors and residents.
Employment opportunities are set to increase
Already the largest regional economy in Australia, the Hunter is well on its way to higher jobs growth. Currently, the region has approximately 322,000 jobs. By 2036, this is projected to increase to 384,000. It’s the biggest regional contributor to the State’s gross domestic product and propels about 28 percent of regional NSW’s total economic output.
Maitland’s health sector surges ahead
A $6.4 million GP and special medical precinct is planned for the suburb of Thornton.
Set to create thousands of new jobs and meet the health needs of residents, the new $470 million Maitland Hospital is at the forefront of the city’s growth. Construction begins in 2019, offering 1,250 new jobs across four years. Once it’s fully operational in 2022, the facility is projected to accommodate 1,000 full-time employees.
Further to that, a $6.4 million GP and special medical precinct is planned for the suburb of Thornton. The proposed development will employ more than 50 staff, including general practitioners and specialists, such as radiographers, cardiologists and obstetricians.
Retail, tourism and industry are on the rise
Thornton is also in the spotlight with a development application recently lodged by Hunter Land, for a new, multi-million dollar motel. This indicates confidence in the area’s growing tourist economy, which has also received a significant boost from the $414 million redevelopment of Stockland Green Hills Shopping Centre.
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As the largest retail redevelopment completed in Australia in 2018, the centre has transformed into a hub for fashion, entertainment, dining and services that attract both residents and visitors to the region. So far, it’s generated more than 2,500 new jobs.
A further benefit to the region’s jobs growth and development is underway, with plans for two huge industrial estates to occupy almost 400 hectares at Black Hill, near the M1 motorway. The $88 million staged development includes 200 industrial lots.
Road and rail networks accommodate long-term development
Government-funded upgrades have significantly improved the safety and flow of traffic on the New England Highway to Maitland. The city also benefits from an extensive rail network. Nine operational railway stations make travel easy to parts of the lower Hunter, Newcastle, the Central Coast and Sydney.
Then, there’s the Hunter Expressway, a dual carriageway freeway that connects Newcastle and the Lower Hunter. It was specifically designed to accommodate long-term growth in the region across the coming decades. Since its opening in 2014, it’s greatly improved travel times for motorists, while reducing the use of the New England Highway through Maitland.
Maitland Town Hall
Excellent liveability factors attract both residents and tourists
Maitland’s history crosses almost 200 years, therefore historic colonial buildings add to its aesthetic appeal, along with street murals and art galleries. A booming food scene includes trendy cafes along the river, fresh local produce and a wealth of home-style bakeries. Throughout the year, the city hosts a range of festivals, concerts, workshops and exhibitions.
With rising jobs growth, strong investment in infrastructure and enviable lifestyle opportunities, a more appropriate question might be, “why wouldn’t you invest in Maitland?”
Photo Credit: "Town Hall" by Nomad Tales is copyright ©2008 and made available under this license.
