The Victorian Government has just approved the masterplan for a $500 million redevelopment at Westfield Doncaster – ensuring Melbourne remains Australia’s capital for fashion, food and retail.
Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne, gave the stamp of approval for the masterplan on Monday, which is expected to create roughly 2000 jobs during the project’s construction phase and 2,900 new full and part-time jobs at Westfield Doncaster after completion.
A key feature of the development will be a gateway building of up to 14 storeys, positioned above a two-level podium of new premium retail in the north-west sector of the site.
This will provide an additional 43,000 square metres of retail and 18,000 square metres of commercial office space.
The upgrade is set to include an expanded bus interchange, enhanced car and pedestrian access within the centre and additional car parking.
Feedback from the community on the proposed development plans was taken into consideration, following the public viewing of development plans in December and January this year.
The masterplan approval paves the way for Scentre Group to lodge a Planning Permit with the Manningham City Council, which will ensure the community’s needs are included in the development.
Minister Wynne said that Melbourne is already the nation’s retail capital and this major expansion will cement its reputation for the years to come.
“This project will create thousands of jobs, draw thousands of shoppers from across the world, and will be a major boost to Victoria’s economy,” he said.
Member for Eastern Metropolitan, Shaun Leane, also commented that the expansion to Westfield Doncaster will create thousands of local jobs and make this shopping district even better.
“We’ve listened to community feedback on this development and now we’re making sure it gets underway.”
