Evolving East Maitland: Draft structure plan estimates ‘catalyst area’ will need 4,000 new homes

Maitland City Council is seeking community input into plans that will encourage infill development and shape the delivery of new infrastructure across East Maitland over the next 20 years.

Preliminary projections show the East Maitland Catalyst Area (EMCA) has the potential to grow by more than 6,000 people over the next 20 years, requiring 4,000 new dwellings. 

The draft EMCA Structure Plan – which councillors approved for community consultation at last week’s council meeting – will guide decision-making for the delivery of sustainable and strategic population growth across East Maitland. 

The EMCA Structure Plan outlines changes to land use and zoning that will open up opportunities for residential infill and mixed-use, higher density development, to centre the area’s future growth around key services, amenities, employment precincts and transport links. 

Maitland City Council Manager Strategic Planning Brett Gardiner said the structure plan was key to ensuring “the area’s residential and demographic growth is balanced with strong environmental, social and economic outcomes.” 

“Our vision for Maitland is a thriving city with connected communities. This draft structure plan for East Maitland is one of the largest land use changes in Maitland in decades; we’re looking to evolve the form and function of East Maitland so that it can support new homes, new jobs, a robust economy, improved infrastructure and enhanced services.” 

The NSW Government’s Greater Newcastle Metropolitan Plan 2036 first identified East Maitland as a catalyst area for future growth back in 2018. 

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the NSW Government is committed to supporting councils like Maitland in planning for well-connected, liveable and sustainable communities. 

“We’re supporting the delivery of a long-term plan to unlock East Maitland’s full potential, from new housing and infrastructure to local job creation.” 

“The East Maitland Catalyst Area Structure Plan is a great example of how early, strategic planning can help match  growth with the services and infrastructure that communities need.” 

Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison said the East Maitland Catalyst Area Structure Plan is a transformative step for our community. By planning for thousands of new homes and supporting sustainable growth, we’re ensuring East Maitland remains a great place to live for generations to come. 

“I’m proud to see the Minns Labor Government and Maitland City Council working together to deliver the infrastructure, services, and housing our growing community needs. This investment will unlock new opportunities for families and local businesses across East Maitland.”  

“Community input is vital and I encourage all residents to have their say on this draft structure plan, so together we can shape the future of our community.” 

In 2024, Maitland City Council was awarded around $300,000 by the NSW Government to undertake a detailed land use plan for East Maitland. 

At the 21 October 2025 council meeting, Maitland councillors voted in favour of placing the draft EMCA Structure Plan on public exhibition for a period of 28 days.

Mr Gardiner said Maitland Council would be speaking to local residents about the proposed plan through a series of pop-up engagement sessions at Maitland Hospital, Stockland Green Hills and East Maitland Library between now and Monday 21 November when consultation closes, and encouraged residents and businesses to attend and share their feedback. 

The East Maitland Catalyst Area extends from Victoria Street train station in the north, southeast to Metford train station, and southwest to Ashtonfield and Green Hills. 

It is one of Maitland’s most important employment areas; more than 2,500 people commute to work inside the East Maitland Catalyst Area every day. 

In 2021, 591 businesses were located in the precinct. For more information on the EMCA Structure Plan and the planned community consultation activities, visit mait.city/EMCA.