North Parramatta: Woolworths, bottle shop at North Rocks Rd a step closer to construction

A decision on a $20 million supermarket and bottle shop planned for an ‘extremely congested’ part of western Sydney has been made amid traffic concerns.

Plans for a full-line Woolworths and BWS liquor shop at North Parramatta on the former Bunning site have advanced, but the supermarket giant must provide public facilities to make it easier for shoppers to reach the busy spot.

Last week, Parramatta local planning panel supported the proposal for the 7405sq m site, which includes a 256-space carpark, a warehouse and distribution centre at the corner of Windsor and North Rocks roads, which panel chair Julie Walsh questioned was “extremely congested’’.

Tim Rogers, from transport consultancy firm Colston Budd Rogers and Kafes, said if an

extra lane was built from James Ruse Drive offramp to Windsor Rd it would have significant impact on the roads.

He said most problems are generated from the James Ruse Drive and Windsor Rd intersection, which flows through to North Rocks Rd.

“If you can help address that intersection then overall the road network will operate better,’’ he said.

A supermarket is close to being constructed. Picture: Monique Harmer

The panel unanimously agreed to support the supermarket but requested the developer donate a portion of land so James Ruse Drive can be widened in an effort to alleviate congestion.

The developer will also build a 3m lightweight steel pedestrian bridge be constructed. The developer must also pay Parramatta Council $500,000 to help construct the bridge.

In August 2020, a Woolworths representative highlighted the demand for supermarkets in the area, which was bereft of 7000sq m of grocery stores.

At the time, Woolworths regional development manager Angus White told the council apart from the Coles on Victoria Rd at North Parramatta and the smaller 1040sq m IGA at Northmead, there was a shortage of supermarkets for the 44,000-strong population, including residents living in multi-storey units surrounding it.

Despite concerns over traffic problems, Mr White said there were no suitable existing sites to develop the supermarket, which would generate 1196 direct and indirect jobs.
The proposal now go before the council to accept or refuse again before the Planning Minister makes the final determination.

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