Stockland to start $37 million upgrade of Ballarat shopping centre

Developer Stockland will soon start work on the expansion and upgrade of the Stockland Wendouree Shopping Centre in Victoria’s Ballarat. 

The project is expected to cost $37 million, Stockland said in a media release.

The redevelopment work, which starts on July 6, will see the addition of 6,700 sqm of retail floor space, with a focus on fashion, casual dining and everyday convenience. Upon completion, the centre will feature more than 100 retailers, reaffirming its position as the largest enclosed shopping destination in the area. 

Stockland Group CEO of Commercial Property, John Schroder, said the company was responding to customer feedback in undertaking the upgrade.

“Our vision is to create the best retail shopping destination in Victoria’s central west. We’re responding to our customers’ feedback to ensure Stockland Wendouree remains the retail destination of choice with a greater range of specialty fashion, retail services and a vibrant and inviting casual dining experience for our customers to enjoy,” he said.

There will be a new full-line 3,800 square metre Woolworths and an adjoining BWS liquor store. 

There will also be a laneway dining precinct to be added as part of the redevelopment. The new foodie hub will offer indoor and outdoor seating and a variety of casual dining choices including cafes and restaurants. 

Ballarat has been identified as one of the largest and fastest growing regional cities in Victoria with its population expected to reach 139,650 by 2031.

“Ballarat is a fantastic city steeped in history, with a strong and diversified economy,” said Schroder.

Sustainability at Stockland Wendouree will also be part of its design with plans for a rooftop solar installation to reduce carbon emissions. 

The development at Stockland Wendouree will take approximately 12 months to complete. Stockland expects the project to generate approximately 500 jobs during construction and 250 local retail jobs in perpetuity.

The centre will remain operational during the redevelopment period with most retailers trading as normal. 

Woolworths will temporarily cease trading at the centre from 4 June 2017 to make way for the construction of a new revitalised Woolworths supermarket.