(NSW Planning Portal)
Newy 87.8 FM – The estimated cost of the Hunter Indoor Sports Centre at Broadmeadow/New Lambton has reportedly risen from about $82 million to $102 million, with the project's status on the NSW Planning Portal listed as "More Information Required".
The reported increase, attributed to construction cost escalation and additional design work following State Design Review Panel recommendations, was reported this week quoting Newcastle Basketball chair Jaclyn Mottram.
The State Significant Development application seeks approval for 12 indoor basketball courts, facilities and carparking, including a show court seating 2,500, at Wallarah Oval. Newcastle Basketball is the applicant and would operate the facility, replacing its 50-plus-year-old two-court stadium at Broadmeadow.
The NSW Government, through the NSW Office of Sport, has provided Newcastle Basketball with $25 million in funding. City of Newcastle says all costs associated with the proposal are Newcastle Basketball's responsibility, and the council is not the determining authority. It has given in-principle support while raising concerns about parking and traffic, flooding and stormwater, and resident impacts.
Amended plans were re-exhibited from 21 August to 17 September 2025, and the proponent had stated an expectation of a final determination by early 2026, which has not occurred. The NSW Planning Portal shows 1,946 submissions across the case, including objections from New Lambton and Lambton residents.
The proposal is set to be referred to the Independent Planning Commission for final determination, with a further public-comment opportunity.
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