Kaufland wants to fast-track plans for mega supermarket and national base in Oakleigh South
German superstore Kaufland is set to create more than 100 jobs when it opens its Melbourne headquarters, with a store already earmarked for this south-eastern suburb.
Inner South
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Supermarket giant Kaufland wants to build its national headquarters in Kingston, starting with a mega store that would bring more than 100 jobs.
The German version of Costco — without the membership fees — is planned for 1126-1146 Centre Rd, Oakleigh South.
The site is currently used by Bunnings, which plans to transfer to an empty Masters store nearby.
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The Kaufland plan includes a 3610 sqm supermarket, bottle shop, food hall and outdoor area and 414 carparking spaces.
Planning Minister Richard Wynne has “called in” the planning applications, a move which exempts Kaufland from requiring a planning permit from Kingston Council.
The State Government is also overseeing Kaufland plans for sites in Dandenong, Coolaroo, Chirnside Park and Mornington.
These will be no smaller than 17,000 sqm, about five times larger than the average Woolworths or Coles stores.
Kingston Council said it was broadly supportive of the Oakleigh South plan but wanted more control over the planning process.
The council also wanted more time to assess the “scope, details and volume” of the application.
In its initial submission to Planning Panels Victoria, Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley said the council had demonstrated significant commitment to appropriate planning for a range of retail formats and there was no reason why the planning application should be fast-tracked.
Independent supermarket owners have criticised Kaufland’s exemption from requiring council permits, saying it gives the chain an unfair advantage over local stores.
Kaufland said it was committed to engaging with communities honestly, transparently and fairly.
Cr Oxley said despite concerns over the planning process the proposal to bring Kaufland’s national headquarters to Oakleigh South would bring significant economic and employment benefits.
She said the plan was in line with the council’s aim to facilitate new investment and redevelopment in Kingston’s older industrial areas.
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