Victorian shopping centre to get $37m upgrade

Stockland-WendoureeStockland Wendouree Shopping Centre in Ballarat will be getting an upgrade, with work on the $37 million redevelopment and expansion to commence on July 6.

The project will add 6700sqm of new retail floor space at the shopping centre, with a focus on youth fashion, casual dining and everyday convenience. Upon completion the centre will have over 100 retailers. Stockland will also add 50 carparking spaces taking the total to over 1,200.

“Our vision is to create the best retail shopping destination in Victoria’s central west,” said John Schroder, Stockland group executive and CEO of commercial property. “We’re responding to our customers’ feedback to ensure Stockland Wendouree remains the retail destination of choice with a greater range of specialty fashion, retail services and a vibrant and inviting casual dining experience for our customers to enjoy.”

At the heart of the upgrade will be a new full-line 3800sqm Woolworths and an adjoining BWS liquor store. The supermarket will Woolies latest format, including an artisan delicatessen and on site bakery.

The shopping centre will also get a new laneway dining precinct. The foodie hub will offer indoor and outdoor seating and a variety of casual dining choices including cafes and restaurants.

Ballarat has been identified as one of the largest and fastest growing regional cities in Victoria with its population expected to reach 139,650 by 2031.

“Ballarat is a fantastic city steeped in history, with a strong and diversified economy,” Schroder said. “The redevelopment of Stockland Wendouree shows our commitment to the region to provide a quality retail experience for the community, now and into the future.”

There are also plans for a rooftop solar installation to reduce carbon emissions and an inclusive playground designed in conjunction with the Touched by Olivia Foundation, to ensure children of all abilities can play together.

Schroder said the redevelopment is about offering a first-class retail experience on par with that of any major metropolitan city.

“We are confident that, on completion, Stockland Wendouree will become the star destination for the community to meet, eat, shop and socialise,” he said.

The $37 million development at Stockland Wendouree will take approximately 12 months to complete. Stockland expects the project to generate about 500 jobs during construction and 250 local retail jobs in perpetuity.

The centre will remain fully operational during the redevelopment program with most retailers trading as normal. Woolworths will temporarily cease trading at the centre starting June 4 to make way for the construction of a new revitalised Woolworths supermarket. Coles supermarket will continue to trade as normal.

Stockland Wendouree is currently Ballarat’s largest fully enclosed sub-regional shopping centre located 4 km west of the Ballarat CBD. The centre is anchored by Kmart, Coles and Woolworths and currently features 82 specialty stores and 1,200 car parking spaces.

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