State’s nod for Myer to expand

A MAJOR Cairns Central shopping centre redevelopment has jumped another hurdle as construction draws near for one of the retail complex’s flagship stores.

Myer has flagged plans to reduce its sprawling CBD outlet from two storeys to one — but it will not happen without a major expansion of its groundfloor tenancy.

The centre’s existing McLeod St bus shelters will be built in to accommodate Myer’s growing ground-level footprint, adding an extra 535 sqm on the ground floor and another 410 sqm upstairs.

Woolworths is planning to take over the vacated and expanded upper-floor tenancy, meaning the centre’s current sole grocery giant Coles will face increasing competition.

The Cairns Post can now reveal the Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning has told Cairns Regional Council it has no issues with the development.

The ball is now in the council’s court to decide whether or not to approve the full project.

A Myer spokesman said the company was working with the landlord to extend the lease and reduce the store from two floors to one bigger floor.

“As part of this space reduction, we plan to improve the merchandise offer and the in-store experience for our loyal Cairns customers. We look forward to saying more on this in due course,” he said.

Cairns Central marketing manager Louise Montafia said the centre was always looking for opportunities.

“We continue to have discussions with retailers, and work on plans to revitalise the centre, which would offer customers additional quality retail brands and greater convenience,” she said.