A masterplan is a long-term, high level document that sets out a vision to guide the future growth and development of a specific area. It provides conceptual layout, outlining land uses, building forms, public and private spaces, and how these elements connect. It also helps define the desired character of an area and how it can be maintained and enhanced over time.

Medowie is one of the fastest growing suburbs in Port Stephens. With ongoing population growth and urban development, the materplan will ensure the town centre evolves in a coordinated, sustainable way to meet the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors now and in the future.

Council has engaged Moir Landscape Architecture to prepare the masterplan in close collaboration with Council and the community. Local feedback is essential in shaping the final plan.

Implementation of the masterplan will occur in stages over both the short and long term. The initial stages will prioritise essential infrastructure upgrades supported by developer contributions, to establish the foundations for future growth. Once this groundwork is in place, the next stage will focus on activating the site for community use, with Council seeking to attract additional grant funding to support these improvements. The final stage will involve the delivery of property development, which Council will work with developers to bring the long-term vision of the masterplan to life.

A masterplan sets out a strategic vision for how an area can grow and develop over time. A place plan, on the other hand, focuses on enhancing the community's day-to-day experience and connection to a specific place.

The Medowie Town Centre land is classified as operational land to allow for a mix of uses, including public space, and attract investment into Medowie. Under the NSW Local Government Act 1993, council-owned land is generally classified as either community land or operational land. Community land is reserved for public use (e.g. parks, reserves, sport grounds) and cannot be sold by council without strict processes and consultation. In contrast, operational land can be developed, leased or sold more flexibly to support local infrastructure, services or economic development.

Yes, a skatepark is one of the features being considered. A new facility in the town centre may replace the existing skatepark at Boyd Oval. Final decisions will be informed by community feedback.

A permanent library service is being explored. It could serve as a community hub offering access to books, digital resources, meeting spaces, and programs for all ages.

The community-led 7 Day Makeover created public space elements like seating and art. Depending on their condition and community support, some may be retained or inspire permanent improvements in the final masterplan.

At the Council meeting on the 24 June 2025, Council agreed to sell the land at 36a Ferodale Road Medowie. Council have carried out a marketing campaign for the premises and are currently working through the sale process. We expect to have more information on the sale to share later this year.

Relocation of war memorials is being considered to improve their prominence and accessibility, especially during events like ANZAC Day. Any changes will be made respectfully and in consultation with the Medowie RSL Sub-Branch and the community.

Under the NSW Local Government Act 1993, council-owned land is generally classified as either community land or operational land. Community land is reserved for public use (e.g. parks, reserves, sport grounds) and cannot be sold by council without strict processes and consultation. In contrast, operational land can be developed, leased or sold more flexibly to support local infrastructure, services or economic development. The Medowie Town Centre land is classified as operational land to allow for a mix of uses, including public space, and attract investment into Medowie.

A Planning Proposal is an application to amend planning controls in a Local Environmental Plan (LEP), such as zoning, building heights, or land use permissions. For example, it may propose rezoning land to allow a broader mix of uses.

More information can be found on the NSW Department of Planning website.

Feedback from the early engagement phase has been reviewed and used to inform the draft masterplan. Council resolved to place the draft masterplan on Public Exhibition for further community input until 1 March 2026. Feedback from the public exhibition will be incorporated into the draft masterplan where appropriate then the final plan will be considered by Council for adoption and implementation.

Implementation will occur in stages over the short, medium and long term, depending on approvals, funding, and priorities.

The masterplan aims to support existing businesses by improving access, public spaces, and customer experiences. Rezoning of land within the site may be proposed through a future planning proposal, which will involve further community consultation and approvals.