Bunnings abandons controversial Panorama site in favour of another nearby

BUNNINGS has pulled out of a plan to build a new store in Panorama, instead focusing on a separate, two-storey proposal nearby.

The design of the proposed Bunnings Warehouse at Edwardstown, with a carpark on the ground floor. Source: Marion Council

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BUNNINGS has pulled out of a plan to build a new store in Panorama after a long-running feud over its design.

Mitcham Mayor Glenn Spear said he met with Bunnings executives last week who said they were disappointed the council’s then-Development Assessment Panel refused the $42 million development, earmarked for the former TAFE site on Goodwood Rd, in August last year.

The hardware company will instead focus on its plan to open a new two-storey store on South Rd, Edwardstown, 2km from the Panorama site.

Mr Spear said Bunnings pulling out of the area was a “great opportunity missed”.

“First of all, it’s $50 million in capital that hasn’t happened in Mitcham,” Mr Spear said.

Where Bunnings wants to go on South Rd, Edwardstown.

“The site is a pigsty. It’s shocking and an eyesore on Mitcham.

“We missed out on the economic impact of jobs while the centre was being created, we miss out on 170 ongoing jobs for our people and we miss out on significant rate income.”

Panorama Clapham Community Group spokesman Neil Baron said there was strong community support for a Bunnings store in the area on the former TAFE site.

“People thought it was going to go through and they didn’t have to vocally support the issue,” Mr Baron said.

Panorama Clapham Community Group spokesman Neil Baron, his wife, Carla, and granddaughter Cassie at the site of the old Panorama TAFE. Source: File

“The community was supportive. There were a few individuals who didn’t want it, like any situation, but I think overall if we look at Bunnings … it’s not an evil, illegal entity we should be shunning, it’s something we should embrace.”

A group of residents complained the large hardware store would be inappropriate for the area and that medium-density housing would be a better fit.

In a brief statement, Bunnings general manager of property Andrew Marks thanked members of the community who supported the proposal.

“We will now be exploring other development opportunities for the site,” Mr Marks said.

Say No to Bunnings Panorama Group spokesman Peter Bryant has been contacted for comment.