Historic Grafton Correctional Centre transforms into Beacon of Heritage and community growth

In an exciting development for New South Wales, the NSW Government through Property and Development NSW, in collaboration with Colliers, has announced the landmark sale of the historic Grafton Correctional Centre’s Heritage Precinct. Situated in the heart of Grafton, NSW, this iconic site presents a unique opportunity for visionary investors and developers to repurpose a significant piece of Australian heritage into a vibrant community asset.

The Grafton Correctional Centre, a former medium and maximum-security prison with origins dating back to 1893, is renowned for its Federation-style architecture and significant historical value. This sale, orchestrated by Colliers through an International Expression of Interest, highlights a strategic move to leverage the site’s rich history and prime location for economic and community development.

Thomas Mosca, Director & Joint Head of Sydney South West Investment Services at Colliers, expressed enthusiasm for the project: “This is more than just a sale; it’s a once-in-a-generation chance to revitalise a piece of Australian history. We envision the future of the Heritage Precinct as a vibrant community hub that pays homage to its past while driving forward the economic and cultural growth of Grafton and the broader Clarence Valley region.”

Nick Estephen, another leading figure at Colliers and Director & Joint Head of Sydney South West Investment Services, added, “The transformation of the Grafton Correctional Centre into a multifaceted development will serve as a catalyst for regional development. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to blend historical preservation with innovation, creating a legacy project that benefits the community and investors alike.”

Grafton, known as the “Jacaranda City,” is not only celebrated for its stunning purple-flowered tree-lined streets but also as a key cultural and economic hub within the Clarence Valley. As the largest local government area on the North Coast, Clarence Valley is home to a diverse and growing population, with a current estimate of over 52,000 residents.

This region has experienced steady population growth over the past decade, attributed to its appealing lifestyle, affordable living costs, and strategic location between Sydney and Brisbane. With ongoing infrastructure improvements and increasing interest in regional Australia as a place to live and work, the Clarence Valley is poised for continued growth. Projections suggest that the area’s population could see a significant increase over the next 20 years, further enhancing its appeal to investors, developers, and residents alike.

The Former Correctional Centre site spans approximately 9,085 square meters, with a gross building area of around 4,972 square meters. It is poised for adaptive reuse, offering potential investors a canvas to craft a development that could include cultural, educational, residential, or commercial spaces, subject to planning approvals. The property’s listing as a NSW State Heritage Item ensures that any development will preserve the site’s historical integrity while allowing for modern reinterpretation and use.

The Grafton Correctional Centre is located within a region known for its robust community and scenic beauty, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and residents. The sale comes at a time of significant growth for the Clarence Valley, with the area positioned as a key node in the burgeoning economic landscape of Northern NSW.

Interested parties are encouraged to express their interest by the closing date of Wednesday, 24th April 2024, at 3:00pm (AEST). For more information, potential investors and developers are invited to contact the exclusive team at Colliers.

This landmark sale represents not only a unique investment opportunity but also a chance to be part of a project that will contribute to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Grafton and the wider region for generations to come.