Retail hub step closer
The $25 million retail development incorporating Kmart and Bunnings could be approved by Baw Baw Shire within the next two weeks.
Planners are in the final stages of assessing the planning application
The application seeks the approval for the development of a bulky goods complex. The development includes: A department store (Kmart) – 6400 square metres;
Trade supplies (Bunnings) – 14,119 square metres;
Restricted retail – Six tenancies ranging from 664 to 1618 square metres in area; and,
Motor repairs (Kmart Tyre and Auto) – 319 square metres.
The development will provide for 627 car parking spaces.
The developers, H. Troon, have engaged Industry Capability Network to run a briefing session in Warragul today for local contractors interested in supplying their services for the Bunnings warehouse construction.
About 60 local businesses have registered for the event that will be held at the Warragul Sporting and Social Club between 5pm and 6.30pm today.
In August, the state government rezoned land on the corner of Queen St and Hazel Drv, bulky goods to retail. The new zoning allows for a retail precinct that can incorporate a department store, bottle shop and restaurant.
The rezoning opened the doors for a formal planning application to be lodged.
Council received the application in October and the permit is likely to be finalised within the next two weeks.
A planning application for the development is expected to be lodged soon with the expectation council will approve the proposal.
The development proposal outlined to council in February, indicated the development would create 292 full time equivalent jobs.
On behalf of applicants H.Troon, Tom McInerney said there would be about 150 people a day working on the site during construction. He said the development was valued at $25 million, and the fit-out by tenants could be another $30 million.
Planning staff have referred the application to VicRoads and Gippsland Water, as well as its internal environment and engineering units.
A final assessment of the application is currently being undertaken against the provisions of the planning scheme.
The buildings and works are exempt from advertising requirements.
Councillors were briefed on the application when it was lodged in October. The application will be determined under delegation.
Businesses interested in attending the industry briefing session today can register at bit.ly/WarragulBriefing.
ICN industry adviser Colin Young said the session would be a great opportunity for local businesses to hear how they can get involved in this new exciting construction project.