EXP Capital plans AUD$ 1.5 billion Maitland precinct

EXP Capital has lodged a Development Application for a AUD $1.5 billion business and innovation precinct in Maitland, planned for a 150-hectare site in the Hunter Region.

The proposed precinct, known as Dalmore Park, would be built in Maitland's Western Precinct. It would include commercial, health and research, industrial and advanced manufacturing, retail, hotel, and sports and leisure uses. The developer says it would be one of the largest precincts of its type in New South Wales.

The Newcastle and Hunter-based property group estimates the project would involve more than AUD $1.5 billion in construction spending over a 20-year development programme. It says the precinct would generate more than 8,370 jobs during development and support more than 10,000 jobs once complete, including direct and indirect roles.

Once complete, the precinct is expected to contribute about AUD $1 billion a year to the Hunter Region economy. Stage one is expected to include upgrades to the New England Highway.

Maitland is one of the faster-growing regional centres in New South Wales, with a population of more than 100,000 that is forecast to exceed 160,000 by 2046. EXP Capital says the project is intended to add jobs, services, and infrastructure as the area expands.

Project scope

The plans include environmental measures linked to the site design. EXP Capital is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Communities v2 rating and plans to include onsite energy generation and storage.

A central green corridor designed by Moir Studio would include restoration of Stony Creek to improve biodiversity and create public open space. The project team also includes Arup and Colliers Urban Planning.

EXP Capital Development Director Gavan Reynolds outlined the company's position on the proposal.

"Dalmore Park is about creating the next chapter of the Hunter's economic story. This region has always powered Australia through its industries and workforce, and now it has the opportunity to become one of the country's leading destinations for advanced manufacturing, innovation, health and technology," Reynolds said.

"As a locally owned business, we're deeply invested in the future of this region. We're committed to working closely with council, industry and the community to deliver a precinct that creates jobs, attracts investment and gives future generations more reasons to build their careers and businesses right here in the Hunter.

"We're ready to move quickly. Once approved, we're looking forward to commencing construction and delivering the infrastructure the region needs to support its continued growth."

Local response

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold backed the proposal and pointed to the role of local investment in a growing regional economy.

"Dalmore Park represents exactly the kind of vision Maitland needs as one of the fastest-growing regions in the state. Having a local organisation at the table makes a real difference. The team at EXP Capital deeply understands this community, and their commitment goes well beyond delivering a development; it's about investing in the Hunter for the long term. Projects like this are how we make sure our growth translates into real jobs, services and opportunities for local families, now and for decades to come," Penfold said.

Moir Studio Managing Director Jason Cuffe described the landscape approach planned for the site.

"At the heart of Dalmore Park is a place-led vision where green infrastructure shapes the precinct from the ground up. Rather than treating open space as an afterthought, the landscape becomes the organising framework that brings people, ecology and place together. The revitalisation of Stony Creek and the creation of a central green corridor will deliver a connected network of parks, gathering spaces and natural systems that support everyday life. It is an approach that strengthens biodiversity, creates opportunities to connect to Country, and delivers a precinct that is not only productive and functional, but genuinely enjoyable to spend time in," Cuffe said.

EXP Capital says work on site could begin within three months of planning approval. The first stage is expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2027, with completion of stage one, including the highway works, projected for the third quarter of 2029.