The project, Create Maitland, focuses on boosting the economy and foot traffic in the CBD by activating vacant properties in key commercial sites by offering short term tenures for creatives.

Ms Hopcroft will collaborate with artists Anna Eggenhuizen and Katrina Holden, to bring life and colour to the riverside shop.

She said the new site, 344 High Street, will serve as a multi-purpose arts hub.

"We are going to be using it as a studio, make-a-space and art gallery," Ms Hopcroft said.

"We have also offered a space to Frank's Fantastic Fairytale Theatre which is a local puppetry company so they can rehearse and store their gear.

"I'm away until February but when I'm back I would like to offer one of the spaces to a creative enterprise or local start-up business. I'm really looking forward to it."

The idea was first investigated in 2017 before a prospectus was sent out to local building owners last year.

Council since received interest from the property owner of 344 High Street, Maitland and the local creatives are now settling in.

Ms Hopcroft said the project could have a significant impact on revitalising the city's dwindling mall, and praised Maitland Council.

"It's about trying to grow creative and business ecosystems, and one of the ways to do that is removing barriers of participation. The sky's the limit," she said.

"The Levee needs a little bit of love. The whole aim is to bring as much life as possible into The Levee, and try to get as many people through the doors as well."

Council's City and Visitor Economy coordinator Andrew Brown said they were thrilled to have Helen and the other creatives into the space. "It really brings the property to life and will no doubt increase foot traffic in Central Maitland," he said.

"I'd also like to congratulate the property owner for coming on board and opening up their property for the creatives."

To find out more about Create Maitland visit maitland.nsw.gov.au/developing-our-economy