LAKE Macquarie's growing population is expected to need an extra 6000 dwellings by 2030 but the challenge is where to put them.
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Lake Macquarie City Council's integrated planning manager, Sharon Pope, said the eastern side of the city was already developed while the western side faced constraints due to mining and biodiversity issues.
Ms Pope spoke about the challenge at a recent housing forum hosted by the Urban Development Institute of Australia's Hunter chapter.
"The population of Lake Macquarie is 202,000 but that is forecast to grow to 225,000 by 2030 and we expect that to require 6000 new dwellings," Ms Pope said.
"Whether those are in greenfield areas or are in-fill dwellings is going to be a discussion moving forward.
"The eastern side of the city is already developed so growth in housing will most likely be through redevelopment of single-dwelling sites into multiple dwellings."
Ms Pope said new greenfield subdivision areas on the western side of the city are facing constraints.
"There is mine subsidence and potholing issues from past mining activities, mining and mineral leases, as well as biodiversity issues," she said.
Johnson Property Group (JPG) developer Keith Johnson also spoke at the forum which covered topics such as urban planning and local population housing requirements.
Mr Johnson said JPG's Trinity Point project would be a serious tourism drawcard for Lake Macquarie.
He said 32 blocks of land would be released for homes in August while the apartments are planned to go on sale in November.
Mr Johnson also highlighted the need to have development processed in a timely manner, and allow stakeholders to have a voice by working together with local councils, the Department of Planning and the community.