The transformation of the historic Wharf building into Newcastle’s newest destination for food, entertainment and gourmet Hunter products is one step closer with the development application lodged for ‘Hope at Honeysuckle’.

HCCDC Chief Operating Officer Valentina Misevska said ‘Hope at Honeysuckle’ will bring the best of the Hunter to Newcastle and submitting the development application was a key milestone for this exciting venture.

“Hope at Honeysuckle is set to become something really special in the heart of Newcastle and once fitted-out, the adaptive reuse of the building will really showcase the best of this precinct and create a unique experience for both locals and visitors,” Ms Misevska said.

“Creating a vibrant, destination venue that offers fun experiences both day and night, encouraging people to linger longer while enhancing our built heritage definitely aligns with our objectives for the broader precinct.”

With the development application now submitted, owner Michael Hope is positive about the project progressing soon.

“We have worked closely with our architects to come up with a design that really showcases the location while being sympathetic to the original fabric of the building,” Mr Hope said.

“It was really important for us to bring a feeling of space to ‘Hope at Honeysuckle’, but instead of looking out at rolling hills and rows of vines, that feeling will come from the expanse of water and views to the horizon.

“From the Honeysuckle Drive frontage, the building will remain largely unchanged. On the harbour side, we want to create an all-weather space for outdoor dining to provide that much sought-after indoor-outdoor feel as well as making the most of the deck area and its proximity to the water. The point of difference in our development application is an additional level of outdoor space designed to really take advantage of the amazing view.”

“We can’t wait to bring more of the Hope experience to you in Honeysuckle.”