Auburn: Hotel, shopping centre planned for Parramatta, Hampstead roads

Feeling fatigue after a bout of shopping? A hotel is part of seven-storey retail centre in a Sydney region that has long been a magnet for furniture shoppers. But its size has sparked concerns.

Joanne Vella

@Parramatta_News

less than 2 min read

October 4, 2022 - 10:30AM

Parramatta Advertiser

NSW

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A $53 million shopping centre and hotel are planned for Auburn near the bustling Parramatta Rd strip that has long been a drawcard for furniture and homeware stores — and a notorious bottleneck.

Pacific Planning has lodged the stage one development application with the State Government, and its planning panel will determine whether the proposed seven-storey building with a 200-room hotel and motel at Hampstead and Parramatta roads proceeds.

The complex amalgamates several lots and is in a mixed industrial, retail and residential neighbourhood opposite Harvey Norman.

The first stage proposes the demolition of Bighands Building Supplies on part 60-68 Hampstead Rd. It is earmarked for three levels of basement parking with 257 spaces, a 8816sq m hotel with a cafe, gym and function space, and 9050sq m of shops.

A report describes its location as well serviced by public transport with buses, but Sydney Olympic Park Business Association chief executive officer Allison Taylor disagreed, saying it was too far from Auburn train station.

An artist's impressions for a $55 million seven-storey retail and hotel complex at Auburn.

“One kilometre to Auburn station is still a bit of a trek so imagine people would still be accessing via car and spaces indicated may not be sufficient,’’ she said.

“I also wouldn’t want it to cause traffic issues like DFO Homebush does in its location.’’

The hotel is hefty when compared with neighbouring Sydney Olympic Park accommodation such as the 177-room Novotel, 218-room Pullman and 140-apartment Quest.

However, its design has been welcomed.

“Any improvement to amenity in the area is positive, particularly for buildings along Parramatta Rd, which, for the most part, are pretty tired and ugly,’’ Mrs Taylor said.

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