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Central Coast housing proposals move toward key planning decisions
Developers await approvals on major projects in Charmhaven and Gosford while the region prepares for substantial population growth.
How we reported this
Developer Thirdi has proposed a $1.6 billion masterplanned housing community at Charmhaven that would deliver up to 2,000 homes with 120ha of protected green space, a new school, and over 10% allocated to affordable housing, pending planning approvals. Urban Property Group is advancing Stage 2 of its $247-$350 million Central Coast Quarter (The Waterfront) in Gosford, which includes two new towers-an approximately 100-apartment residential tower and an 18-storey commercial building-along with a retail pavilion.
Charmhaven masterplan details
The Charmhaven proposal from Thirdi stands out for its scale and mix of uses. It would add up to 2,000 homes alongside protected open space and a new school. More than 10% of the homes are designated as affordable. The project remains subject to planning approvals before any construction can begin.
Gosford waterfront stage two
In Gosford, Urban Property Group is progressing the second stage of Central Coast Quarter. The $247-$350 million development features an approximately 100-apartment residential tower and an 18-storey commercial building plus a retail pavilion. This work aligns with the Central Coast Regional Plan 2041, which identifies Gosford City Centre as the primary employment and commercial hub focused on mixed-use developments.
Existing estates and regional targets
As of March 2026 there are 61 housing estates across Central Coast growth areas. Twelve of those estates are located in Warnervale, including Hedley Estate, Ivory Estate and Rosella Rise. Additional developments are underway in The Entrance, Forresters Beach, Doyalson and Charmhaven. Lake Haven and Lake Munmorah are also identified in the Regional Plan 2041 as key growth areas for new affordable housing.
Growth forecasts driving decisions
The Central Coast region is forecast to grow by 75,500 people (22%) by 2036, requiring 41,500 new dwellings and nearly 25,000 new jobs over the next 20 years. These figures set the context for the planning decisions now facing the Charmhaven and Gosford proposals.
Approvals and next steps
Both the Thirdi Charmhaven masterplan and the Urban Property Group Gosford towers require formal planning approvals before they can proceed. Local authorities will assess how each project meets the housing targets, affordable housing requirements and mixed-use goals outlined in the Central Coast Regional Plan 2041.