Retail hub starts soon

PREPARATIONS for an $80 million retail hub, to feature a Woolworths supermarket and Big W, are gaining pace after settlement for the development was reached on Monday.
The council is still in the process of securing further car parking sites, in preparation for the closure of a car parking bay in Treloar Lane. The closure was expected to occur shortly after settlement.
Pakenham Business Group (PBG) president Michael Porter said he understood the 288-space bay would be closed in stages following discussions with the developer.
“While fencing is going up, everyone should take note that the fencing won’t come to Treloar Lane for as long as they can avoid it – this will save 150 spots,” he said.
Mr Porter said it was likely the library would be demolished first and soil dug out for the underground car park before the whole area was shut down.
The council recently opened up more off-street parking, a move that was embraced by traders who were concerned about parking provision during the complex’s construction.
Last fortnight, the announcement of two new parking options: a parking bay on the corner of John and Henry streets with 35 spaces and one behind the Pakenham Arcade boasting 25. This came a month after 150 spaces were opened up near Cook Drive. The council has also encouraged shoppers to utilise 70 spaces near the Pakenham Hall.
Cardinia Shire spokesman Paul Dunlop said the council was in the process of securing further car parking sites in and around Pakenham’s CBD and would provide updates as they became available.
“We will continue to work closely with the Pakenham Business Group, business operators and the wider community,” he said.
“A map highlighting new and existing off-street car parking areas in Pakenham is currently being prepared and will be distributed to Main Street business operators for their employees and customers.”
Mr Porter said the developers were keen to meet with the PBG and the council on a regular basis to keep everyone updated on the project.
“It’s a really good initiative by them and it was their suggestion,” he said.
When complete, the retail complex will boast 1150 car parks, including about 875 underground.