The stage one development of the Hunter’s newest town comprises civil works for about 10 hectares of land, including 1.5km of new roads and services.

Coles will take up almost half of the space, with eight additional lots earmarked for retail/commercial purposes.

The major chain will construct a shopping centre consisting of a full-line supermarket as well as a range of integrated specialty stores.

The company has mapped out its requirements for additional space to allow for the inclusion of other group brands in years to come.

The medical centre will include associated dental, acupuncture and pharmaceutical facilities

The childcare facility is estimated to cater for about 150 children.

The tavern will incorporate a bistro, TAB facilities and outdoor dining area.

The site works, which are being undertaken by local firm KCE, are due for completion in late 2017.

It is expected construction of some of the new facilities will commence by September 2017.

Huntlee project director Stephen Thompson, said it was great news for the future residents of Huntlee and those who live in surrounding townships such as Branxton, Greta and North Rothbury.

“For the first time, residents in those towns will have access to a major supermarket in close proximity to their homes,” Mr Thompson said.

Work is also expected to commence before Christmas on the next stage of the Wine Country Drive upgrade. 

The upgrade starts at the existing roundabout at the Branxton end and joins into the recently-completed stage one upgrade works. 

It will include a signalised intersection for the main street into the town centre, a central median strip and widening to provide two lanes in each direction.