Woolworths Regional Distribution Centre in Warnervale to be expanded

A major expansion is in the wings for the Woolworths Regional Distribution Centre on the Central Coast... and with it comes hundreds of new jobs. See what’s planned.

Woolworths Group is planning a major expansion of its Wyong Regional Distribution Centre.

The supermarket giant has announced that is preparing a State Significant development application for the alterations of its existing centre at 11 Warren Road, Warnervale.

Works would include expanding the existing temperature-controlled warehouse, ambient warehouse and returns transfer facility warehouse and increasing space for heavy vehicle parking and onsite maintenance facilities including a truck wash and refuelling services.

The expansion will also include 13 new banana ripening rooms and refurbishing facilities for team members.

Artist’s impression of the proposed expansion.

Woolworths states the proposed expansion would deliver a range of new benefits for stores and customers across the Central Coast.

This includes an increased range for customers, improved quality and freshness of products, greater capacity supporting on-shelf availability and customer demand, reduced transport movements and space for 3800 products.

“There will be more space to receive recyclable waste from stores, installing solar panels and charging stations for electric vehicles,” the statement reads.

“These initiatives are underpinned by Woolworths’ commitment to be 100 per cent powered by renewable energy across its sites by 2025.”

Vehicle access to the site will continue to be on Warren Road, however Woolworths will propose extra entry/exit options via the existing driveway to Woolworths Way. There will also be an increase in parking.

The site of the existing facility in Warnervale.

“Plans are at an early stage, and the construction program and timing will be finalised following the approval of the proposal,” Woolworths has stated in a community brochure.

“Neighbours will be notified before any construction works commence. If approved and construction commences, care will be taken to restrict and minimise dust, noise and traffic impacts.”

Wyong state Labor MP David Harris has welcomed the proposal.

“This will see an additional 240 permanent jobs plus construction jobs,” he said.

Wyong state Labor MP David Harris welcomes the proposal. Picture: Supplied

“More local jobs means less commuting, more opportunities and more money staying locally

“This project represents a confidence boost for the Warnervale employment zone and will potentially attract further industries to the area. Our growing community needs local employment so there are opportunities for our younger generations.”

The development application will be sent to Department of Planning and Environment in early 2022.

Woolworths will hold a community information session on February 10 from 6pm. To register email [e-mail].