Local developer and builder, GWH recently lodged a Development Application (DA) with City of Newcastle for Darby Plaza, a new eight storey A grade office building located at the junction of Hunter Street and Darby Street within Newcastle’s CBD.

Jonathan Craig, GWH Managing Director said that interest in the CBD has increased from local and interstate businesses following the continued rejuvenation activity.

“We identified there was a shortage of A grade office space currently available,” Jonathan said.

Designed by architects, EJE, Darby Plaza is situated on land released by Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation and will consist of over 8,200 sqm of A grade office space and a generous activated outdoor plaza area.

Delivering on City of Newcastle’s strategy to provide a new community focused public space and improve movement from Darby Street through to the foreshore, Darby Plaza includes a cafe kiosk at the ground level, encouraging use and activation adjacent to the plaza.

Interest from companies to lease space within Darby Plaza has been strong, with a number of major local and national companies already in discussions.

The building will include end-of-trip facilities for staff, proximity to two light rail stops, 138 car parks and the retail amenity of nearby Darby Street. Adam Leacy and Matt Kearny of the newly formed Commercial Collective agency have been appointed as leasing agents.

Jonathan said GWH is passionate about being a part of the continued transformation of the CBD and recently moved their headquarters from Thornton to their award-winning Aero development in Hunter Street.

“The move to Hunter Street is one we were excited to make. We see the strong and positive economic impacts that are occurring as businesses move back into the CBD,” Jonathan said.

There continues to be a high level of interest for GWH’s current residential projects, with SKY Residences in Newcastle’s CBD now at 50% sold, Highpoint Charlestown is due for completion in early 2020 and is over 70% sold, plus the boutique 121 Elder development in Lambton recently commenced construction after strong early pre-sales.

GWH continues to be a diversified business across a variety of sectors, investing in the local region.

GWH has been developing and building commercial, industrial and residential buildings in the Hunter region for over 23 years.

Once the DA for Darby Plaza has been approved, it is anticipated that the building will be complete and ready for occupation in late 2020.

IMAGE | A render of the new Darby Plaza.