Latest retailers announced at new Woolies centre ahead of opening
After more than 10-years on the drawing board finishing touches are being added to a landmark new Woolworths store ahead of a grand opening next week. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
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AFTER more than 10-years on the drawing board, the finishing touches are being added to a landmark new Woolworths store ahead of a grand opening next week.
The new $20m eco-friendly complex has a chequered history amid opposition from Cairns Regional Council that ultimately led to a 2015 Planning and Environment Court battle and a ratepayer legal bill of almost $600,000. In July 2018 Woolworths finally started construction on the 5,000sq m of retail space and next Wednesday the grocery giant will welcome its first customers through the doors of the Woolworths Gordonvale Neighbourhood Shopping Centre.
Previously confirmed retailers Coco Sushi, Malaysia Noodle House and JSL Phone Repairs join newly announced shops Discount Drug Store and Cignall in opening after the anchor tenant next week.
A gym and petrol station will be delivered in future stages.
Gordonvale resident Tez Blackmore was thrilled to soon have a new retail option on his doorstep.
“I’m delighted about the new Woolies,” he said.
Woolworths state development manager Chris Sheehan said he felt the company had delivered on a vision to create a vibrant, well-connected, and high quality neighbourhood shopping destination.
“We understand the key role our shopping centres can play in the day-to-day lives of local residents,” he said.
“We believe we’ve achieved that and can’t wait to welcome customers into our new centre from Wednesday.”
More than 800 rooftop solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system have earnt the new development a Green Building Council of Australia four star rating in a Far Northern first for Woolworths.
Almost 100 team members will be employed at Woolworths Gordonvale, of which 44 are new to the firm.
Division 1 councillor Brett Moller conceded the development had traversed a rocky road but he was ultimately positive about the new retail centre in his patch, despite concern the national outlet would lure customers away from existing family business in the town centre.
“It has been a journey but we’re very pleased to see the new Woolies opening in a further offering for our community,” he said.
“What we have looked to do is create a different identity, we have wonderful cafes and basic infrastructure and (the aim is to) get additional visitation to support the new Woolworths and business in the town centre.”
The new centre will open from 8am – 9pm Monday – Friday, and 8am – 6pm Saturday.
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Originally published as Latest retailers announced at new Woolies centre ahead of opening
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