Warburton: Plan unveiled for new IGA at 3466-3472 Warburton Highway

A Yarra Valley town could get a much-needed shot in the arm, with plans unveiled for a new state-of-the-art supermarket.

A render of the proposed IGA supermarket development in Warburton. Picture: Yarra Ranges Council

A state-of-the-art supermarket could be on the way for Warburton, with a $7m development set to provide the Yarra Valley town with a much-needed shot in the arm.

Yarra Ranges Council has received a planning permit application for a new IGA supermarket at 3466-3472 Warburton Highway, effectively replacing the existing “constrained” IGA.

As well as a big range of groceries, the store would also sell alcohol.

The developer has been working with council officers over the last 12 months on the plan, making refinements to the design.

“This refinement and the ultimate proposal demonstrate there will not be any unreasonably impact to the streetscape, will maintain views to the hills beyond and provides an acceptable response to the context of the land,” planning documents said.

“The overall built form is of a good quality contemporary supermarket design, and the built form response has been carefully conceived to ensure that the development will provide a meaningful built form contribution to the town centre.”

The current site above and the new look supermarket below.

“Further, it is submitted that the proposal would provide a substantial net-community benefit and that the economic proposition and benefit from the proposal is clear and supported through both state and local planning policies.”

The development is expected to create new jobs, and allow local residents to shop for a greater range of weekly supplies, akin to a full line supermarket, closer to home.

The store will also sponsor local events and organisations.

More than 200 people have commented on the plans on Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child’s Facebook page, with many welcoming the development.

“Just what we need as we sure don’t have much going for us at the moment. We used to have a butcher and newsagent but nothing now,” Cherylin said, while Rose said a good supermarket was “well overdue” for the town.

“That looks incredible. Warburton most definitely needs to evolve and keep moving forward. “It’s looking so tired,” Jason said.

Residents can have their say on the plans here before the council makes a decision on the proposal.