Since October 2019, ESS has proudly managed the NSW Government’s interests in the former Pasminco smelter site at Cockle Creek, Boolaroo, under the Lake Macquarie Smelter Site (Perpetual Care of Land) Act 2019. This landmark initiative reflects a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainable development, and community-focused regeneration.
A Legacy Site with a Vision for the Future
The Cockle Creek site, once home to a lead and zinc smelter operating from 1897 to 2004, spans 92 hectares. Today, it is undergoing a transformation into a vibrant mixed-use precinct. ESS is leading this change by:
- Managing environmental responsibilities in partnership with the NSW EPA and other agencies.
- Facilitating strategic planning, including rezoning, subdivision design, and infrastructure delivery.
- Engaging stakeholders, including Lake Macquarie City Council and the Waste Assets Management Corporation.
- Supporting development opportunities, such as the proposed Costco site, to stimulate local economic growth.
- Ensuring long-term care, with revenue from land sales funding perpetual environmental management.
Sustainable Development in Action
Approximately 22 hectares of the site contain engineered containment cells holding 1.9 million cubic metres of contaminated material. The remaining 70 hectares are being subdivided for industrial, commercial, and residential use—unlocking new opportunities for the Lake Macquarie region.
ESS’s role ensures that redevelopment is not only safe and compliant but also aligned with community aspirations and government objectives.