State planners have green-lit a $5.5 million refurbishment of a shopping complex in Perth’s south, marking the second multimillion-dollar investment approved for the site within six months.
The Metro Outer Joint Development Assessment Panel on Monday gave the nod to plans to revitalise the current Phoenix Shopping Centre in Spearwood.
In October last year, State planners approved a $3.2 million tavern and microbrewery to transform the upper deck of a carpark at the centre.
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READ NOWThe most recently approved works involve new retail space, upgraded interiors, landscaping, the addition of a playground and a new external dining precinct with up to 250 seats.
Renders reveal graffiti-style buildings and green spaces set to transform the centre, which currently operates with multiple major retailers including Big W, Woolworths and Farmer Jack’s.
Planning Solutions senior associate Marc Re — who spoke on behalf of The Trust Company applicants — said it would be the second substantive investment into the Spearwood centre.
“(It is) the second substantive proposal as part of the planned investment into the shopping centre,” he said.
“The proposal is a high-quality architectural design.
“This application has substantial planning and design merit.”
Mr Re previously said the investments would reinvigorate what is currently a “tired” looking centre.
City of Cockburn councillor Phoebe Cork said the tavern was “desperately” needed to revitalise the site.
Fellow councillor Tarun Dewan raised concerns on Monday about a lack of communal space in the site, but Mr Re said that would be tied into the new dining precinct.
“There is a seating area — we’re accommodating up to 250 seats which can be used as communal space as well,” he said.
Cr Dewan ultimately voted to approve the refurbishment, which was unanimously passed by JDAP members.
“This development will help us in attracting more residents to the amenity. It will also enhance the local businesses and employment.,” he said.
“It will add to the development of the area.”