Erina Fair: Target to close as redevelopment plans approved

As Target announces it’s closure after more than 30 years at Erina Fair, plans have been approved for a $5.1m redevelopment at the popular centre.

It’s official – Target Erina is closing.

The store has announced the doors will officially close on May 7 2022 after more than 30 years at the Erina shopping complex.

Target was among the first few tenants at Erina Fair when it opened its doors in 1987.

However in recent years, similar to other Target stores, the crowds have been slowly dwindling away.

Target announced a swag of stores and Target Country outlets closing, or rebranding to become Kmart, in early 2021 to “improve the commercial viability of the business” however Erina was not included in the list.

The Central Coast Express Advocate's front page for the opening of Erina Fair in 1987 which included Target.

The store will close on May 7 2022.

A spokeswoman from Lendlease (Erina Fair) confirmed the closure in May.

“Target has been a prominent long-standing retailer of the centre for many decades and we thank them for the offering they provided during this time,” she said.

“To ensure we continually meet the needs of our customers, we’re always looking for opportunities to evolve our centre and diversify our retail mix. We have some exciting plans for 2022 and we look forward to sharing these with our community as soon as they are finalised.”

The announcement follows the approval of plans, lodged by Lendlease, for a redevelopment of the northeastern wing of the Erina shopping centre including the Target site and nearby rooftop carpark.

The $5.1m plans, approved in February by Central Coast Council, were set to cater for the arrival of sports clothing giant Decathlon however the Express understands that Decathlon will no longer be moving in.

“The alterations involve facade amendments, including signage, a new entry, and rooftop mechanical deck,” the plans state.

The $5.1m plans have been approved by Central Coast Council. Picture: Sue Graham

The plans request the removal of 16 spaces in the rooftop carpark which houses the current Big W and Target entrances, while the entrance to Australia Post will be getting revamped.

Lendlease indicates that the Fair currently has 4878 carparks and the removal of 16 will not impact parking demands.

“The proposed alterations to the Erina Fair Centre allows for an improved building facade presentation; better pedestrian connectivity; and facilitates future tenancy operations,” the plans state.

French retail giant Decathlon will no longer be opening at Erina Fair.

“It is located within a growth corridor and is proposed during a time when employment growth is critical for the Coast.”

Gosford’s Kylie Edmunds said she was not surprised to hear of Target’s closure.

“It’s been quiet for a long time now, especially if you compare it to Big W or Kmart, even Best and Less,” she said.

“It’s sad, I have always liked Target but if no one is shopping there, what’s the point of keeping it open.”

Target has been contacted for comment.