City of Newcastle is preparing to revamp a former café site at one of the city’s most popular parks as it seeks expressions of interest from potential new operators.
The Lambton Park building, which was constructed in the 1940s as a baby health centre, will undergo renovations as part of a development application set to be lodged in coming months.
Subject to approval, the project would see the building modernised into an open plan cafe complete with bi-fold doors onto a new rear deck extension, which will provide accessible ramp access for parents with prams and people with mobility issues.
Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the redevelopment would continue City of Newcastle’s ongoing investment in the Lambton Park precinct.
“We are committed to creating enriched neighbourhoods with accessible spaces that nurture connected, inclusive communities,” Cr Nelmes said.
Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz said the proposed upgrade would improve the facilities on offer in the popular recreation precinct.
“Lambton Park is a much-loved destination that plays an important role in meeting the recreational and social needs of our local residents,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.
“This café is ideally located next to the children’s playground, with the new rear deck allowing parents to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching their children play on the equipment. Its proximity to the refurbished Lambton Library and nearby tennis courts ensure it will be a valuable addition to what is already on offer in the park precinct.
“This will be the first major adaptive reuse of this historic building since its construction more than 80 years ago.”
An expression of interest process, managed by Colliers on behalf of City of Newcastle, to find a suitably experienced operator to lease the café, pending the approval and completion of renovations, has commenced.
Expressions of Interest will close on 28 March, 2024.
