Stockland Wendouree will undergo a $37 million renovation starting July 6.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The redevelopment will add 6,700 square metres retail floorspace to the shopping centre, including a laneway dining precinct with outdoor seating, and plans for an all-abilities children’s playground.
Stockland expects the project, which will take about 12 months to complete, to generate 500 jobs during construction and 250 ongoing retail jobs.
Only Woolworths is expected to close for the redevelopment. The store will cease trading next Sunday, June 4, to reopen as a full-line 3,800 square metre supermarket with adjoining BWS.
The shopping centre will also add a further 50 carparks, bringing the total number of carparks to 1200.
Stockland Group executive John Schroder said the redevelopment would make Stockland Wendouree “on par” with metropolitantian shopping centres.
“Our vision is to create the best retail shopping destination in Victoria’s central west. 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,” Mr Schroder said.
Mr Schroder said most shops were expected to trade as normal. Pedestrian access will be maintained during construction.
The redevelopment also includes plans for a rooftop solar installation and an inclusive, all-abilities playground designed with Touched by Olivia Foundation.
A spokesperson for Woolworths has previously said all Stockland Woolworths staff members had been offered positions at other local Woolworths sites, including its Howitt Street store.
Ballarat’s sixth Woolworths, located at the Delacombe Town Centre, is expected to open late this year.
The Stockland Wendouree redevelopment was approved by Ballarat City Council last year.