Westfield Bondi Junction: David Jones to downsize in major redevelopment of department store
A major department store at a popular eastern suburbs shopping centre is set to be downsized as part of a massive redevelopment. See what it means for shoppers here.
Wentworth Courier
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A major retailer at one of Sydney’s most exclusive shopping centres is set to be downsized as part of a multimillion-dollar redevelopment.
David Jones at Westfield Bondi Junction will be significantly reduced in size in a bid for a new lifestyle and recreational hub, described as part of the “evolution of Westfield” in Sydney’s east.
A development application by Westfield parent company Scentre Group was submitted to Waverley Council in December, forecasting a major reduction in the size of the David Jones retailer.
A Scentre Group spokeswoman said Westfield was “proactively repurposing this space”.
“We look forward to council’s consideration … and sharing more news with our customers in due course,” the spokeswoman said.
According to the plans submitted to the council an entire floor of the popular retailer would be repurposed by Westfield for a new shopfront.
“This development application proposes only internal alterations within the David Jones store,” a planner for the project said.
“Development consent is sought for the removal of the two existing escalators which connect Level 1 and Level 2 within the store.”
The development application at the Bondi Junction shopping centre had to be resubmitted to address administrative issues.
A Waverley Council spokesman said the Westfield’s proposal would be resubmitted following administrative errors.
A David Jones spokeswoman told the Wentworth Courier that the department store was “focused on delivering world class products and experiences for our customers both online and in-store as Australia’s leading omnichannel retailer”.
“Key to delivering this experience is our ongoing program of retail network optimisation, which includes refurbishing our stores, right-sizing and where necessary, consolidation of our footprint,” she said.
“The optimisation program also involves significant investment in our rapidly growing omnichannel offering as we meet the changing needs of our customers and create seamless experiences and inspiring destinations wherever they choose to shop.
‘We can confirm that we will hand back Level 1 of our Bondi store to the landlord following the refurbishment of Level 2, 3 and 4.
“We are pleased to invest further in our Bondi store, and look forward to delivering seamless services and experiences for our customers.”
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