Historic Shepherds Hill Cottage is to be opened to the public, with a kiosk or other cultural facility among potential uses being considered.
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The council has invited expressions of interest to open the heritage site for public use, and we hope to receive some creative and innovative proposals that will take advantage of the cottage's scenic location.
The former military mess hall sits in a prime space along the Bathers Way, Newcastle's 6 kilometre coastal path that will rival any coastal walk in Australia when finished. The cottage offers 230-degree views of the ocean, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley from its position.
We are looking for someone to re-imagine the 182sqm heritage-listed building as a café or tea room, museum, art space, community use facility or for some other activity in line with the Draft Shepherds Hill Defence Group Conservation Management Plan.
The cottage is being opened to the public as part of our priority coastal revitalisation project and long-term commitment to creating vibrant public spaces. Part of the wider Shepherds Hill Defence Group Site, the cottage was originally a quarters for personnel who manned the adjacent eight-inch gun and later a mess hall for officers.
Submissions will be assessed against criteria and a preferred tenderer will be chosen. Expressions of Interest will be open until March 27.
