Council opens EOI for future use of Richmond Main Colliery site

Published on 22 November 2024

Cessnock City Council is offering a rare opportunity to own a slice of the Hunter’s history.

An expression of interest to explore potential future uses of two adjoining land parcels off Leggetts Drive, Richmond Vale, opened today. The 60ha site comprises the former Richmond Main Colliery land and buildings, and surrounding lands.

Council is open to proposals from proponents with the requisite experience, expertise and capacity to unlock the potential of the site and, critically, provide a community benefit.

Cessnock City Mayor Dan Watton said he is looking forward to seeing strong proposals and collaborating with the successful proponent to realise the potential of the site.  

"The Richmond Main Colliery site has a long history serving the local community, whether through mining and power generation, or more recently as a means of remembering our history. I want to see a continuation of that community benefit," said Clr Watton.

"There is potential to do so much more with the site and I’m looking forward to seeing proposals from proponents with vison, capacity and experience to deliver positive community outcomes."

The site is zoned RU2 under the Cessnock Local Environment Plan, and current use includes a museum, rail restoration, and operation of an historic railway. It is also subject to a licence agreement signed by Council and the Richmond Vale Preservation Co-operative Society Ltd in October 2024.

The EOI is the first of a two-stage evaluation process. Proponents that are short listed following stage one will be invited to submit a detailed proposal as part of a second stage, anticipated to take place in early 2025.

The 3-month expression of interest remains open until Tuesday 25 February, 2025. All related documentation can be viewed here on Council’s website.