This could be the future for Port Macquarie’s CBD

A plan to completely revitalise central Port Macquarie, from Settlement City to Windmill Hill, is beginning to take shape. 

The proposal includes diverse housing, green public spaces, entertainment hubs and hospitality venues.

🗞️What happened: A draft version of the City Heart Strategy & Master Plan was published on October 13 and is currently on public exhibition until Monday, December 8, giving the community the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposal.

❓What’s the plan: The proposal for the heart of Port Macquarie is focused on providing:

• Diverse housing for all ages

• Arts, events, and entertainment venues

• Retail and dining

• Community green spaces, including waterfront precinct

• Walk and cycle paths

📍A wide scope:

There are 5 precincts that make up the City Heart study area. They include:

• Port Macquarie CBD

• Westport Precinct

• Settlement City Precinct

• Civic Precinct

• Eastport and Windmill Hill Precinct.

👀What it looks like:

📈Population growth sparks demand: Port Macquarie-Hastings LGA is experiencing population growth and increased demand for services, employment opportunities, community facilities and housing, including affordable housing options.

🌦️Environmental considerations: The plan aims to ensure the relevant infrastructure, services and spaces are developed to respond to future environmental challenges like climate change resilience and natural disaster preparedness 

🗒️What next: Following a review and consideration of feedback received during the public exhibition, a final Master Plan will be prepared and presented to council. 

Once adopted, it will set a framework and guide for future decisions on streetscapes, public spaces, housing, and community facilities.

📢How to have your say:

There are a number of ways to provide your feedback on the draft plan.

• Online submission via the council website: https://haveyoursay.pmhc.nsw.gov.au/draft-city-heart-strategy-and-masterplan

• Click and comment on the interactive map

• Email: [email protected]

• Post to:
  Chief Executive Officer
  Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
  PO Box 84
  Port Macquarie NSW 2444

All submissions must be received by 5pm Monday 8 December 2025.

Thumbnail: Artists impressions of (L) new cultural centre and Aquatic facility in the Civiq Precinct and (R) green space and high rise buildings at CBD and Westport waterfronts.