Hunter site set for $1.5b business and innovation precinct
A Hunter site once earmarked for a rail freight terminal is being repositioned as a $1.5 billion business and innovation precinct.
EXP Capital acquired the 150ha Dalmore Park holding on the New England Highway in Rutherford, settling in February, 2025.
The land was first subdivided in December 1859 for the trustees of the late T.W.M. Winder.
It was a farm when B Marheine Holdings owned and managed it.
A 2017 environmental assessment was prepared for an earlier proposal, known as Rutherford Park Freight and Business Centre, with offices, a rail park and freight facility with spur connected to the Main Northern Railway line along the property’s southern boundary.
Change of plan
B Marheine Holdings sold the Dalmore Park property to EXP Capital; the result prices each hectare at $147,333.
With about 1.5 kilometres highway frontage, the latest plan is for an employment precinct with industrial and advanced manufacturing, health and research.
Offices, retail, a hotel and leisure precinct is also proposed.
The single largest precinct of its kind in NSW and is the most in Hunter’s history, it is expected to be delivered in stages over 20 years.
The first phase, expected to include New England Hwy upgrades, is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2029 (continues below).
$1.5b precinct
Maitland’s population is forecast to increase from more than 100,000 to over 160,000 by 2046, representing annual growth of about 2.6 per cent.
EXP Capital development director Gavan Reynolds said the region had an opportunity to become a destination for advanced manufacturing, innovation, health and technology – beyond its traditional uses.
“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,” according to the executive.
Maitland mayor Philip Penfold added the development could help translate population growth into employment and services.
“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,” he said.
Maitland City Council planning documents identify the broader Dalmore Park precinct as about 256ha.
Its draft development control for the area identities remnant vegetation forming part of a regional biodiversity corridor, with threatened species including the brush-tailed phascogale and squirrel glider.
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