THE former Bunnings site in Clarkson has the potential to become a 10,000sq m retail development that could generate about 330 jobs, a planning document says.
A proposed activity centre structure plan for the site on the corner of Marmion Avenue and Neerabup Road, compiled by Urbis Town Planners, is currently out for public comment.
Redevelopment of the vacant 3ha site owned by BWP (Bunnings Warehouse Property) Trust has been subject to speculation since it closed in 2014 when the hardware store relocated to a bigger site further east on Neerabup Road.
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READ NOWThe Urbis report, completed in April 2018, said retail uses could maximise on commercial exposure and connectivity, and potential residential uses could benefit from open space, ocean views and access to the shops.
“The site is an engaging and activated gateway providing a sense of arrival to Clarkson Town Centre,” it said.
“A retail presence serves as an identifiable landmark on the prominent Neerabup Road and Key Largo Drive intersection and offers convenience shopping to passing trade.”
The report said a retail sustainability assessment concluded that 10,000sq m of retail floorspace was “appropriate and supported by the market”.
“The proposed development would have the capacity to provide for around 332 direct retail jobs in total (full-time, part-time and casual) during the on-going operation phase,” it said.
“The former Bunnings Warehouse provided employment for approximately 178 employees.”
The plan, if approved by the Wanneroo Council, could allow redevelopment of the site for a range of retail and commercial uses and potentially for other uses such as residential.
The public submission period will close on July 10. Visit www.wanneroo.wa.gov.au for more information.