Penrith, Bunnings Warehouse: Big extension planned

Bunnings Warehouse in Penrith could soon be bigger and even better if multi-million dollar plans for a extensive facelift are approved.

Bunnings on Castlereagh Rd could soon be in line for a $4 million facelift.

A popular Penrith hardware store north of the CBD could soon get a facelift and an extension.

Bunnings Warehouse on Castlereagh Rd and Mullins Rd is the subject of a development application lodged with Penrith Council earlier this week.

If approved, the works, expected to cost more than $4 million, would see an additional wing built on the western end of the building for a larger timber trade sales area, as well as a building materials and landscape supplies yard.

The current timber trade sales area would extend to the south with a new canopy over the unloading area, and a new entry awning would be added to the existing nursery entrance.

The existing nursery entrance at the Bunnings Warehouse on Castlereagh Rd will have a new awning under plans lodged Penrith Council.

The parking would also be reconfigured to add an additional 14 parking spots to the area, and five new “business identification” signs would be erected.

The gross floor area of the store would increase by almost 3000 sqm.

A planner from Sutherland and Associates Planning, on behalf of Bunnings, said the works would “improve the visual quality of the site”.

“The massing of the development remains of an appropriate scale … and will not result in any significant impacts on the amenity of the adjoining properties,” they said.

“The existing Bunnings is a significant generator of employment opportunities and the proposed improvements will ensure that it will continue to provide for full-time and part-time ongoing operational jobs once the works are complete.

A sketch shows where the additions to Bunnings Warehouse on Castlereagh Rd would be made if plans are approved by Penrith Council. Picture: Supplied

“(It) will improve the economic viability of the site by allowing it to meet the ongoing needs of local workers and residents in the catchment (area).”

The planner said the style of the building wouldn’t change, and all relevant legislations are met by the plans.

“The proposal provides the opportunity to upgrade the functionality of the site and improve the streetscape presentation of the existing building.”

Bunnings Regional Operations Manager Robyn Hudson confirmed the plans.

“If approved, the larger store will offer the local community an even wider and larger range of home improvement and lifestyle products,” she said.

“We look forward to working collaboratively with local council to progress the application.”