Westfield Knox redevelopment: Photos reveal possible paid parking

New photos show customers could soon have to pay to park at Knox, as the opening date of the first stage of the centre’s redevelopment is revealed.

Speculation over whether paid parking will be introduced at Westfield Knox continues, with construction work ramping up on the centre’s $355 million upgrade.

Pictures and video taken by Leader this week at Gate 1, compared to Street View pictures online, show changes that could support a shift to paid parking.

Extra concrete has been installed on the road to divide lanes of cars which would enter and exit the centre.

The street view of the entrance in 2019.

Compared to now.

Construction work at Westfield Knox. Picture: Kiel Egging

But Westfield Knox’s owners are remaining tight-lipped on any changes to parking.

A Westfield Knox spokesperson said: “The transformation of Westfield Knox is well underway including construction in our carpark. Stage 1 will open in December 2022 and we’ll have more exciting news to share with the community soon.”

A caller to 3AW’s Rumour File in July suggested paid parking could be on the way at Knox.

Speaking to Leader in May, Scentre Group regional manager centre experience Michelle Clarkson did not rule out introducing parking fees at the centre.

“We’re doing work in the carpark to enhance the customer experience and making sure it’s as convenient as possible for our customers to come into the centre and enjoy the new shopping experience,” she said.

Construction work at Westfield Knox. Picture: Kiel Egging

Customers who stay longer than three hours have to pay for parking already at Eastland and The Glen Shopping Centre.

At Westfield Doncaster, customers have to pay for parking after two hours.

Rates start at $3 for 2-2.5 hours, with customers facing a hefty $45 if they stay for more than six hours.

In a poll on Knox Leader’s Facebook page, more than 200 people said they wouldn’t be happy to pay for parking at Knox.

“They will lose a lot of customers if they do this, including me,” Monica Henwood said.

“They are just being greedy,”

A new Aldi, Woolworths and fresh food market are set to open on Level 1 by the end of the year.

A 2000sq m library and fashion, beauty, lifestyle and homeware stores will open on Level 2 in 2023, along with the new basketball court and a 1700sq m multipurpose community space.

Rebel Sport and JB Hi-Fi will relocate into the new precinct.

MacPac, which sells outdoor equipment, will also be opening in the same precinct with more new retailers to be announced soon.