Protecting nature, securing tomorrow

We're proposing the reclassification of 22 land parcels from Operational Land to Community Land to help secure and protect them for future generations.

These land parcels are currently managed as natural areas, but are not classified as such. The 22 land parcels cover a diverse range of natural areas including wetland, creeks and bushland in Black Hill, Elermore Vale, Fletcher, Wallsend, Maryland, North Lambton and New Lambton Heights.

By changing the classification of these land parcels, we can make sure they continue to be managed in a way that delivers environmental and cultural benefits for our community.

What are the benefits?

  • Greater clarity

    Provide greater clarity for land management and investment decisions.

  • Environmental benefits

    Ensure the continued delivery of environmental benefits for future generations.

  • Cultural connections

    Maintain cultural connections for our community.

  • Enhanced opportunities

    Provide future grant funding and biodiversity offsetting opportunities.

Land parcels by category

There are 6 parcels which are proposed to be classified as Natural Area - Wetland. These include:

  • Black Hill Conservation Area
  • Brickworks Park, Wallsend
  • 1C Minmi Road, Wallsend
  • 14 Minmi Road, Wallsend
  • The Ponds Highland County (part), Fletcher
  • Wentworth Creek off Maryland Drive, Maryland.

There are 8 parcels along the south-western edge of Blackbutt Reserve which are proposed to be classified as Natural Area - Bushland.

There are also 3 road parcels which are proposed to be classified as Natural Area - Bushland. These include:

  • Road Reserve within Jesmond Bushland
  • Road Reserve - Arthur Street (between Third Avenue and Water Street), North Lambton
  • Road Reserve - Second Avenue (Eastern portion), North Lambton.

There are 5 watercourse assets proposed to be classified as Natural Area - Watercourse. These include:

  • Gunambi Creek, Wallsend
  • Tributary of Ironbark Creek, Wallsend (beside 5A Ganney Road watercourse)
  • Blue Wren Creek - three parcels of land off Grandview Parade, Elermore Vale.
These land parcels are important biodiversity corridors for native flora and fauna. Take a look at some images of these natural areas.
George McGregor Reserve, Rankin Park
Image of bushland
1C Minmi Road Wetland
Image of a wetland
George McGregor Reserve
Image of a person standing next to a tree
Blue Wren Creek
Image of a creekbed with rocks and trees
Black Hill Wetland Conservation Area
Image of Black Hill Wetland Conservation Area
Powerful owl and chick at Marshall Road, New Lambton Heights
Image of an owl sitting on a tree
Black Eyed Susan - threatened species at George MacGregor Reserve
Image of native purple flowers
Blue Wren Creek off Grandview Parade, Elermore Vale
Image of a creek bed

Location of land parcels

Click on each of the pins to see close up maps for each location.

Have your say

We want to hear your feedback on whether you support the reclassification and how you value these natural areas.

You can have your say by:

  • Completing the online submission form below.
  • Emailing engage@ncc.nsw.gov.au with 'Reclassification of land parcels' in the subject
  • Mail to PO BOX 489 Newcastle 2300, Attention: Environment and Sustainability Manager, City of Newcastle

Submissions close 5pm 27 June 2025.

Tell us if you support this proposal

Have your say on our proposal to protect these natural areas.

Protecting your privacy

The City of Newcastle is committed to protecting your privacy. We take reasonable steps to comply with relevant legislation and Council policy.

Purpose of collecting personal details: Council is collecting this information to determine the local community’s views and opinions on the documents outlined.

Intended recipients: Information provided as part of the consultation will be used as part of the investigation into the document, and may be included in future reports on the issue.

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Access: Individuals can access data to check accuracy by contacting Council.