A new concept in storage facilities could soon be landing in Newcastle with the potential launch of The Bolthole – Islington.
Respected local property developers Julian Morton and Dave Hughes lodged a Development Application (DA) with City of Newcastle (CN) on Friday 18 August to convert an existing mixed use industrial premises.
They’re on a mission to transform under-utilised urban facilities into luxurious sub-culture hotspots to meet the needs of residents and business owners.
And, the pair is planning to open their first Bolthole on a 2,000 square metre site in Milford Street.
Mr Morton admitted the idea arose about eight years ago.
“The rapid gentrification and apartment living revolution in the inner city has created a need for such spaces,” he said.
“Pre-existing zoning presents an opportunity to maximise infill development sites.
“So, The Bolthole is designed for enthusiasts whose businesses or their valuable or sentimental objects, projects or passions have outgrown conventional spaces or can’t be accommodated in their downsized living environment.
“It’s also about creating a space that supports people’s business and lifestyle interests as well as creating a community for like-minded people.”
The Bolthole – Islington will boast communal spaces including a 400 square metre rooftop lounge, complete with sauna, ice bath, bathrooms, library, BBQ, kitchen and sundeck.
In a first for such facilities in Newcastle, there’ll be a vehicle detailing and wash bay as well as a multi-storey, access-controlled car lift allowing people to drive up and into their units.
An online concierge-style service will allow owners and tenants to book the lounge, professional cleaning services, catering and more at the click of a button.
“We want to create spaces, and curate communities, where passions can be shared,” Morton said.
“In The Bolthole, you can spend your time doing whatever your interests or passions are in line with the facility’s zoned permissible uses.
“Whether that’s collecting classic cars, art, whiskey or wine, recording music or podcasts, sensitive document storage or personal and business development… people are limited only by their imagination.”
Patrons will purchase rather than lease the units, with the size of them customised to buyers’ needs.
Mr Morton expects to attract interest from people who have big, busy, exciting lives and fascinating personalities to match.
“Bolters will be work-hard, play-harder types that are passionate about their families, business and communities and know how to prioritise the balance in their lives,” he said.
“The facility will also have a highly-secure personalised security system to protect owners and tenants’ most treasured possessions.”
Subject to council approval, he is looking to start construction by early 2024.
Confident that demand for the units will be strong, Mr Morton and Mr Hughes are already planning a second Newcastle facility.
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