The draft development control plan for the 1702 hectare Huntlee site proposed four “distinct” villages, each with shops and facilities within walking distance for most residents, and a town centre uniting the four.

The Huntlee site includes 200 hectares of employment land and 624 hectares of conservation land and open space with a framework for parks and recreation facilities.

Listed as a state significant site, a development control plan will be required for Huntlee to establish a framework to guide future development, before any subdivision work or construction can be approved.

Development applications would then be assessed against the plan.

The NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure is assessing a stage one project application to subdivide part of the Huntlee site into 1701 residential lots for 2042 dwellings, 50.5 hectares of mixed-use employment land and associated infrastructure including landscaping, open space, recreation areas, roads and drainage.

The department is awaiting the proponent’s response to submissions and final development proposal.

The draft plan was prepared by the department in consultation with Cessnock and Singleton councils.

Project applications for future subdivision stages will need to be assessed by local councils.

Construction of houses and buildings will require a development application to be lodged with council, or a complying development approval from the council or a private certifier.

Residents are invited to comment on the draft that can be viewed on the department’s website, by visiting www.planning.nsw.gov.au/onexhibition

The documents are also available at Cessnock City Council and Singleton Council offices.