Newcastle's iconic but derelict western Queens Wharf building is slated for demolition, with work expected to commence in February. The City of Newcastle has given the final approval to knock down the structure, marking a pivotal moment for the city's waterfront.
Approval and Timeline for Demolition
The development application to raze the building was officially approved on December 19, 2025. Council officials have indicated that the actual demolition work is likely to begin in February of the following year, once new ferry offices in Stockton are completed. The process of knocking down the building is anticipated to take several months to complete.
The building, which formerly operated as the Harbourview Function Centre, has stood empty since a devastating fire gutted it in 2020. In the years since, it has fallen into severe disrepair, becoming a target for vandals and unauthorised occupants.
Future Vision for the Waterfront Site
The demolition is described by the City of Newcastle as a critical first step in revitalising the prime harbour-front location. Once the site is cleared, the council plans to implement a series of short-term activations. These are designed to ensure the public can continue to enjoy the precinct while longer-term redevelopment plans are finalised.
The future of the site has been a major topic of community interest. In August, the council received nearly 1800 public suggestions on how the area should be transformed. The feedback from Novocastrians strongly supported creating a vibrant, mixed-use precinct featuring dining, retail, arts and culture, night-time activities, and ample public open space.
In October, the council began seeking expressions of interest from potential development partners to help shape the long-term vision for Queens Wharf.
Site Details and Access During Works
It is important to note that the demolition plans only apply to the western wharf building. The popular and operational Queens Wharf Hotel, which is on the same council-owned site, is not included in the knockdown and has a lease secured for another eight years.
The Queens Wharf precinct, originally opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988 as a Bicentennial project, includes two buildings, car parks, a public promenade, and the ferry wharf. The nearby Queens Wharf Tower was demolished in 2018.
During the demolition, some disruptions are expected. The bike lane, five on-street car parks on Wharf Road, and the western Queens Wharf car park will be closed. However, access to the essential ferry terminal will be maintained at all times. Pedestrian access to the footpath and foreshore will be preserved as much as possible, with work staged to minimise safety impacts.
