New supermarket, cinema, child care centre planned for Essendon
A multistorey shopping precinct planned for Pascoe Vale Rd has been given the green light – with a cinema and giant supermarket confirmed for the site. But councillors have grave concerns over something that could put a dampener on the project.
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A new multistorey shopping precinct – including a large supermarket – is on its way to Essendon.
A permit application was passed by council on March 11 for a three-storey mixed-use development planned for 299-311 Pascoe Vale Rd.
The plans include a supermarket exceeding 1800sq m, food and drink premises, an indoor recreation facility, a childcare centre, a cinema, a medical centre and a 728-spot car park.
It would also include three underground levels.
The existing self-storage facility, gymnasium, veterinary centre, Petstock and Supercheap Auto will be demolished to make way for the giant development.
Essendon North Trader’s Association president Mark Errichiello believes the new precinct would benefit the area.
“I’d be for it, I think anything that would be a good activity centre, a good cultural hub for the area would be great – a local cinema has been needed for ages,” he said.
Mr Errichiello, Essendon Raine & Horne director, said it was possible that the new development could have an impact on existing local businesses around Essendon.
“It could be a bit of pressure, people will need to make their businesses stand out,” he said.
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He said he didn’t think the new complex would change the character of the area.
“There’s already a three-storey apartment across the street,” Mr Errichiello said.
“Long term our population is going inner city and inner north, it’s a popular place to live and people like to stay local.”
Councillor Narelle Sharpe said the development would support the municipality’s vision for 20-minute neighbourhoods.
“There is certainly a community hub aspect to this development, which I like to see,” she said.
“I think this is a real win for the community.”
However, she and other councillors, did note the reduction of parking from 728 spaces to 411.
Councillor John Sipek, who did not support the application, said parking was a major concern in Moonee Valley and the reduction was a bad call since spots were already so rare.
“The problem is everyone drives everywhere, I don’t think people are going to walk on a major road like Pascoe Vale Rd,” he said.
“I think this is going to be a shortfall on parking.”
The centre will be located in proximity to Strathmore Railway Station.
Councillor Nicole Marshall said she hoped the connection to the station was worked on.
“That would provide a significant benefit to the community,” she said.