Bunnings still dreaming of new $42m SA mega store in Adelaide’s inner south despite delay
BUNNINGS is still hoping to build a $42 million superstore in Adelaide’s inner south despite vocal opposition from locals and a more than six-month delay in the application process. Here is where it’s at.
A PLAN to build a controversial $42 million Bunnings in Panorama will be assessed by October, seven months later than initially expected.
Amended plans, which included the removal of rear access to the site along Shepley Ave, were submitted to the council late last year.
However, in February the hardware giant delayed the application “to allow new information to be considered”.
A Mitcham Council spokesperson said Bunnings had submitted a number of amended plans to address community and council concerns.
“The application is currently being assessed and it is anticipated that a report will be presented to the Development Assessment Panel within the next three months.”
The council wanted extra information about landscaping, hours of operation and heavy vehicle access, while residents were concerned about traffic issues.
The Say No to Bunnings Panorama spokesman Peter Bryant said he was still concerned about the company’s application.
The group has collected more than 2000 signatures against the development since October last year.
“Resident sentiment hasn’t changed when it comes to having a giant bulky goods outlet dropped on their doorsteps, particularly one with no economic or planning justification,” Mr Bryant said.
“We’re still concerned about the impact of an extra 5000 car and truck movements in our suburbs every day and around an intersection already at capacity.
“We remain hopeful the Mitcham Council will protect our community by saying no to a Bunnings at Panorama.”
Panorama Clapham Community Group spokesman Neil Baron was comfortable with the delay, providing community concerns were addressed.
“It appears they are doing the right thing to meet the needs and requests of the locals,” Mr Baron said.
“They won’t make everyone happy, but that is the way of the world.”
Bunnings property general manager Andrew Marks said the company had worked collaboratively with the council to amend plans.
“This includes providing additional technical information in recent months in order for council to make a proper assessment,” Mr Marks said.