Southgate Shopping Centre proposes expansion into neighbouring property in Sylvania

Three new tenants and a reconfiguration of other retail stores is proposed for an expansion of a shopping centre in Sylvania.

Plans were lodged with Sutherland Shire Council to expand Southgate South Village. Picture: Google maps

Three new tenants and a reconfiguration of other retail stores is on the cards if a proposal to expand a popular shopping centre in south Sydney gets the green light.

A development application was submitted to Sutherland Council this week to expand Southgate Shopping Centre by demolishing the neighbouring building, the former squash court on Melrose Ave.

The plan proposes to build a three-storey extension to the existing shopping centre at the basement retail level and roof level in place of the demolished building.

Sam Curry, head of Portfolio (Retail), ISPT said given the growing demand in the shire, the company was committed to evolving Southgate to ensure “the latest retail concepts are incorporated to continue to enhance the shopping experience for our local community and customers”.

“Enhancing the existing convenience-based elements, while also providing a greater level of choice, amenity and option under one roof will provide a better shopping experience.”

The former squash court building will be demolished. Picture: Google maps

The planning documents state there would be partial reconfiguration of Kmart tenancy to incorporate relocated Woolworths supermarket into the newly constructed area.

“ISPT has worked with Woolworths to design a best-in-class supermarket for the Sutherland Shire community including a brand new store,” Mr Curry said.

There also will be three other new tenants.

“With the increased and enhanced offering, a mix of retailers are proposed to be added to the tenancy mix including fresh food operators, service providers along with everyday need retailers,” Mr Curry said.

“The reconfiguration of existing tenancies, creation of new major retailer spaces, addition of new parking and new pedestrian access points is necessary for the continually growing population of Sutherland Shire and the efficient use of the existing centre to meet increasing demands,” documents state.

“The proposed development will provide improved functionality for commercial tenants and for customers and service providers supporting the operation of the centre.

Location of the centre. Picture: Google maps

“Following construction, the provision of a new major retail will provide for uses serving the community, generating several employment opportunities in the locality.

“The proposed development is necessary to ensure the local community has adequate retail opportunities and to improve the quality of the existing development on the site.”

The plans indicate the Kmart store would be extended; there will also be three new lifts, new direct-to-boot carparking facility, new centre management office and other buildings works including a new loading dock.

An additional 16 car spaces will be provided with a parking report.

Southgate shopping centre is a single level shopping centre built in 1983 which houses Kmart department store, Coles and Woolworths supermarkets, specialty shops, a Zone Bowling Centre and a public library.

The centre, which is located at 124 Princes Hwy, Sylvania and is next to Sylvania Hotel, Fitness First and McDonald’s.

More than 1100 car spaces are provided at-grade, within an underground carpark level and on the roof of the building.

Since the initial development of Southgate Shopping Centre, various renovations have taken place but there has been “no significant expansion” in more than 15 years.

“The last significant change made to the centre was conducted in 2008 when approval was granted to refresh the facade and signage,” planning documents state.

“The proposed alterations and additions are consistent with the character of the commercial built form in the streetscape and neighbourhood and will not adversely impact the site, traffic and pedestrian circulation and the amenity of nearby residential properties.”