The Key Way

‘The Key Way’ project is an urban scale project that looks at utilising architecture as an undercurrent to greater social engagement. In an area lacking proper public space this project aims to provide a central node for the public infused with infrastructure and program around which the community can grow.

The 1960’s saw a string of four coal power stations built around Lake Macquarie. The commercial and short sighted realities of the 20th century meant that these sites are today in various states of decommission and abandonment. Destined for demolition to make way for suburbia these sites with their towering chimneys will be deleted from the public consciousness which for better or worse are a part of its history.

Wangi Wangi power station though has received state heritage listing status and will be spared demolition. Stretching 230m long and with 75m tall concrete stacks the building is visible from all around the lake. It has been abandoned since the 1980’s and has slowly been eaten away by time and vandalism - left for teenagers and curious architecture students to explore.

Located at the base of the Wangi Wangi peninsular at the heart of Lake Macquarie “The Key Way” project is essentially an adaptive reuse project that aims to turn this abandoned coal power station into a ferry terminal, train station, retail / office centre, residential housing, art gallery and waste to energy treatment plant.

Beyond nostalgic romanticism of an abandoned structure this project looks to recognise the past and create a future for Lake Macquarie that utilises its greatest assets.

In a time when the norm is demolition and rebuild, “The Key Way” aims to build on the bones of the 20th century.