The ACT Government has given the green light for the expansion of The Marketplace that will see the addition of a brand new, latest concept, Kmart store and 25 specialty retail stores. The development approval represents another step closer to the realisation of the vision for the Gungahlin Town Centre of a lively hub for retail, commercial and entertainment uses, while maintaining an “urban village” character.
The $60 million dollar redevelopment of The Marketplace will double the size of the current Woolworths centre. The retail, services and dining offer has been increased in response to feedback received from the community and has been designed to cater for the strong population growth expected in Canberra’s north over the next decade. Upon completion, shoppers will enjoy an expanded range of retail stores and services with an emphasis on greater choice for the family as well as greater dining options throughout the day and evening. The Marketplace will provide an enhanced retail precinct within Gungahlin for the community to connect, to shop and to enjoy.
“We’re committed to delivering an expanded shopping precinct that builds on the strength of the Town Centre, preserves the intent of the surrounding streetscape and integrates well with the existing retail and community facilities”, said the Development Manager, Phillip Knackstedt. “Now that the approval has been given we can begin the improvement of the shopping experience for Gungahlin residents with a greater choice of retail stores as well as more convenient parking to service everyday shopping needs”.
The redevelopment will see the expansion of the centre over the existing on-grade car park adjoining Woolworths and will feature a new, 2 level, undercover car park for over 500 cars. The redevelopment will see improved connectivity between the Woolworths, Big W and planned Kmart precincts with a tunnel being built under Hibberson St that will link the two car parks, giving seamless access to over 1,300 car spaces. A new entry to the Big W mall will be created as well as a new and upgraded Hibberson Street bus shelter.
“The expansion of The Marketplace is great news for Gungahlin. It will provide increased jobs for local residents both during and after construction and the addition of yet another key retail anchor in Kmart will further reinforce The Marketplace as the shopping destination of choice for the region. Upon completion the community will know ‘The Marketplace’ as one centre”, Mr Knackstedt went on to say.
This exciting project is due for completion prior to Christmas 2016 and the existing centre will continue to trade as normal throughout the works.
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