We’ve heard and read a lot about how rapidly the Maitland area has been growing in recent years – and there’s clear indication that the population boom is set to continue.
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Defence Housing Australia has lodged a development application with Maitland City Council to build 500 new homes on 58 hectares at Thornton.
According to DHA, about half of those will be earmarked for military personnel and the remainder will be sold to the public.
In simple terms, it means another 500 families will set up their homes here soon.
The move is a clear vote of confidence in the Maitland area from Defence Housing Australia.
According to the state government’s Hunter Regional Plan, finalised last year, Maitland is only going to continue to grow in the next two decades.
Data in the regional plan predicted that Maitland’s population would rise from 78,000 in 2016 to 104,850 in 2036 (an increase of 26,650 residents).
It also forecast that the number of dwellings in the Maitland Local Government Area would jump from 31,650 in 2016, to 44,200 by 2036 – a rise of 12,550 homes.
“Strong population growth in the Maitland Local Government Area is resulting in ongoing pressures for additional residential land and a shortfall in infrastructure provision,” the plan noted on housing.
“The growth in housing needs to be balanced against the natural constraints of flooding and the agricultural value of the floodplain and other rural lands.”
The challenge is going to be for the federal and state governments, as well as Maitland City Council, to keep pace with this growth and provide the infrastructure that’s required by a population of more than 100,000.
More people living in this region increases demand for services – a good thing for local businesses – and creates a more diverse range in how money is being spent.
It’s also more people in the local job market, when unemployment – particularly the youth jobless rate – is high. So it’s vital to acknowledge the growth and the challenges it presents so this city can adequately plan ahead and make the most of the opportunities that come with a rapidly increasing population.
Ultimately, this population growth could produce an exciting future for Maitland as it continues to solidify as a key regional hub.
