The Upper Hunter region stands at a pivotal juncture, poised to leverage the transformation of the 143-hectare Liddell Power Station site into a catalyst for economic diversification and industrial growth. The strategic repurposing of this site is not just about replacing an aging power plant; it’s about securing the region’s future as a hub for investment and job creation. Amy De Lore, Property Council Hunter and Central Coast Regional Director, underscores the urgency of this transformation, highlighting the acute shortage of industrial land in key locations across New South Wales. “Industrial land is in short supply, and we know that when businesses can’t secure land in NSW, they take their investment, jobs, and development elsewhere,” she warns. This stark reality underscores the importance of preserving and repurposing valuable industrial land, ensuring it remains a driver of economic activity.
The Upper Hunter’s strategic advantages—its robust road and rail connections, a skilled workforce, and existing infrastructure—position it as an ideal location for continued industrial development. The region has long been a powerhouse for NSW, and the transformation of the Liddell site could cement its status as a key industrial centre. De Lore emphasizes that repurposing the site will prevent the loss of valuable industrial land to competing uses, thereby maintaining its economic viability. “Repurposing the Liddell Power Station will help to make sure valuable industrial land isn’t lost to competing uses but remains a driver of economic activity for the region,” she asserts.
The Property Council’s submission to the Inquiry into Beneficial and Productive Post-Mining Land Use echoes this sentiment, advocating for efficient and innovative approaches to repurposing former mining and energy sites. This is not just about filling a gap left by the closure of Liddell; it’s about creating new opportunities for investment and growth. As the local economy diversifies, the continued availability of industrial land will be crucial. The approval of the Liddell site’s transformation is a significant step towards attracting new industries, investment, and jobs. The Hunter region, with its rich industrial history, is ripe for a renaissance, and the right policy settings could ensure it remains a cornerstone of NSW’s economic landscape. But what does this mean for the broader energy sector? How will the repurposing of the Liddell site influence the region’s energy mix and its transition towards renewable sources? The transformation of the site could serve as a blueprint for other regions grappling with the closure of aging power plants and the need for economic diversification.
The energy sector is in a state of flux, with the global push towards renewable energy sources. The Upper Hunter’s transformation could provide a model for how to navigate this transition, ensuring that economic stability and job creation remain at the forefront. The site’s repurposing could also spark innovation, attracting new industries that align with the region’s evolving energy landscape. This could include advancements in energy storage, renewable energy production, or even the development of green hydrogen hubs. The transformation of the Liddell site is more than just a local story; it’s a testament to the energy sector’s ability to adapt and evolve. It’s a call to action for other regions to consider how they can repurpose aging infrastructure to drive economic growth and sustainability. The Upper Hunter’s journey will be closely watched, and its success could inspire similar transformations across the globe. As the region embarks on this exciting new chapter, one thing is clear: the future of the energy sector is not just about power generation, but about creating sustainable, resilient economies that can thrive in a rapidly changing world.
