Did you know that the ageing Woolworths supermarket that anchors Sherwood Central could soon be extended and upgraded, as part of a planned renovation of the retail centre?
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The long-time owners of the retail complex have applied for a material change of use in order to facilitate renovations aimed at modernising facilities and improving offerings for shoppers.
Headlining the plans are extensions to the Woolworths tenancy, including new direct-to-boot delivery options. Additionally, nine new specialty retail spaces are to be added during the renovation process.
Significant improvements to parking availability, site facilities and visual aesthetics have also been put forth. In total, the proposed upgrades are set to increase the centre’s gross floor area to 6,058 square metres.
To accommodate the refreshed layout prepared by architectural firm Cottee Parker, seven existing retail tenancies and part of the childcare centre will need to be demolished. The exterior facade is slated for a full upgrade as well, which developers say will greatly improve the aesthetic appeal of the core Sherwood commercial district.
“The proposal involves upgrades and extensions to the existing Woolworths supermarket which is necessary to cater for increasing demand. The overall upgrades will also provide a high standard of visual amenity and will represent a significant improvement to the core commercial area of Sherwood,” planning reports indicate.
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The proposed extensions to the shopping centre are not expected to significantly impact the amenity of nearby sensitive areas, as the hours of operation will remain consistent with current hours. The shopping centre will continue its existing hours of operation even after the upgrades and extensions are completed.
The proposed renovations and extensions are currently under assessment by local authorities. If approved, the upgrades are positioned to bring Sherwood Central into the modern retail era and provide an improved shopping experience for patrons. Centre management aims for the redevelopment to act as an anchor for further growth in the surrounding community.
Published 18-September-2023