Cade Lucas
Manor Lakes is set to gain a new retail and trade supplies precinct and according to its proponents, hundreds of jobs too.
Wyndham council’s planning committee unanimously approved a development application for the construction of Manor Lakes Town Centre 2A at a meeting on September 12.
The proposal from Ranfurlie Assest Managent involves a new Bunnings Warehouse store being built on the site at 485 Ballan Road, adjacent to Ranfurli’s existing Manor Lakes Central shopping centre.
“It will cement the precinct as a key retail and lifestyle asset for the area,” said Ranfurlie Asset Management CEO Cameron Male in thanking council for their approval..
“Manor Lakes Central boasts over 75,000 visitations per week and is established as a retail & commercial focal point not only for the local community, but for the surrounding population,” Mr Male continued.
“This development will generate construction jobs and inject increased dollars into the local economy with additional spend by workers and consumers alike.”
Wyndham councillor Pete Maynard also touted the job opportunities and extra convenience the new precinct would provide to local residents.
“This permit application will ensure timely access to goods, services and employment of in excess of 600 ongoing jobs and approx 200 with construction to existing and future residents in the area.” said Cr Maynard who moved the motion at the planning committee meeting.
Along with construction jobs and Bunnings Warehouse, other large retail outlets, showrooms, restaurants, convenience stores and a service station are also expected to provide ongoing employment.
More than 400 parking spaces will be offered at the site with two access points built on Ballan Road, one on Armstrong Road and footpaths along both.
Bicycle facilities will be provided for both shoppers employees as well.
Cr Maynard said that while included in the application, new emergency services headquarters will also be built on the site.
“Construction is imminent for the new CFA building and so I hope the 24 hr ambulance building will be announced soon.“
