In November 2013 Singleton Council heralded the purchase of land, previously occupied by the Sutton car dealership, in John Street.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
They had plans to develop commercial, residential or green space for the two blocks that covered an area of 2,269 square metres.
Now Council has decided to call for expressions of interest for the purchase and redevelopment or lease and redevelopment of the site at 189-195 John Street, with a view to:
- increasing the site utilisation;
- improving the site appearance;
- creating business opportunities;
- increasing investment in Singleton;
- and attracting more customers to the Town Centre.
The site is opposite Riverside Park, which is under construction on a former caryard and due for completion by the end of the year.
General Manager Jason Linnane said Council purchased the land because of its strategic location on John Street and potential for commercial redevelopment to be a catalyst for further commercial investment.
He said the proximity of the site to a brand new, state-of-the-art destination park would increase its appeal to potential buyers and developers.
“The significant investment already in John Street, with plans for more to come subject to funding as part of the Town Centre Upgrade, and a major project to deliver a family-friendly recreation space in the heart of the CBD has transformed the way locals and visitors alike view Singleton,” Mr Linnane said.
“It was always Council’s intention that 189-195 John Street would be part of the renewal of the Town Centre.
“With Riverside Park nearing completion, now is an opportune time to invite proposals for how the site could be used to enhance interest from investors and continue to build on the area’s appeal for shopping, eating out and recreation.
“Council showed terrific foresight to purchase the site when it became available in 2015, and it now offers a tangible opportunity to deliver on that investment not only through the proceeds of a sale or lease, but for the economic benefit of Singleton.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing what proposals are put forward for how that site could be used and what new developments we may be seeing in the Town Centre soon.”
Mr Linnane said any sale is conditional on Council realigning the boundary on the corner of Elizabeth and John streets to help the turning of heavy vehicles.
Should the property be sold he said the funds will be placed into Council’s Property Fund to be used for future projects that progress Council’s Community Strategic Plan.
Expressions of Interest close on August 27.
