(Maitland City Council)
Newy 87.8 FM – Lowes will close its central Maitland store after 40 years, with trading to cease during the week commencing 7 September 2026.
Maitland City Council, which owns the building, said an independent inspection highlighted structural concerns with the subfloor and found the premises is not suitable for continued commercial occupation without significant intervention.
Council General Manager Jeff Smith said Lowes had been a fixture in central Maitland for four decades, providing residents with countless uniforms from school to trades. "Making this decision was not easy, but with the building's age and growing structural issues, it's the right decision for the safety of staff, patrons and community," he said.
Maitland City Council purchased the property in 2019 as a strategic investment for future redevelopment opportunities for The Levee, given the building's central location and 14.1 metres of potential river frontage.
Mr Smith said engineers would carry out a full assessment before next steps are determined, with future options for the site to be considered in consultation with the community and businesses.
Lowes said it remained committed to its Hunter customers, with operations to merge into its existing store at Stockland Green Hills, about 5km away. "We'd like to thank our Maitland customers for their loyalty and support over the years," a spokesperson said.
The council sought to assist Lowes to find an alternative central Maitland location, however the retailer confirmed it would consolidate at Green Hills.
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