Historic Bunbury Plaza refit in store
Bunbury's first shopping centre will be partly demolished in a redevelopment that Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan hopes will resemble Perth's boutique areas.
The owners of Bunbury Plaza, built in the 1960s as the first project of prominent businessman Jack Bendat, intend to expand the existing supermarket and reconfigure the car park through the purchase of nearby land.
Plans are yet to be formally submitted to the Bunbury City Council although councillors did vote at a December meeting to give the owners a formal lease over three lots on Prosser and Spencer streets for extra car parking.
Centre co-owner John Markotis said he did not foresee any planning problems.
"There are a number of matters relating to the project that need to be finalised and approved however all interested parties are aligned to ensure a swift transition through planning, approval and into construction," he said.
Work is scheduled to start mid-year after major tenant Woolworths closes on April 14 - a decision that Mr Markotis said was the tenant's.
The estimated completion date for the centre redevelopment is mid-2016.
Mr Markotis said the aim during the redevelopment process was to minimise effects on specialty stores. It is understood that some stores, however, will have to relocate within the centre.
"Any effects that arise as a function of the process will be correctly managed and worked through with the tenants of the Plaza," he said.
"They have all been made aware of the project and further details will be provided to them as the program is closer to finalisation.
"Only parts of the building will be demolished and all environmental concerns will be considered as part of the approval and construction process."
Mr Brennan congratulated the owners "for their vision and having the confidence to further invest in their property and our city".
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