April start for $80m Woolworths project

CONSTRUCTION for the Woolworths development in John Street is expected to begin in April.
Construction on the site was supposed to begin late last year, but was postponed, partly to ensure that the pre-Christmas trading period was not affected.
Spokesperson for the Cardinia Shire Council Andrea Bortolin said the council was continuing to work closely with Woolworths on preparations for the $80 million retail development.
“At this stage it is expected that construction will begin on-site in April or May,” she said.
“It is expected that the Treloar Lane car park will close when construction begins, however council is working with Woolworths to provide a staged closure of the car park to maximise the benefit to retailers and the general community.”
Treloar Lane itself will remain open throughout the construction period. Ms Bortolin said the council would ensure shoppers and business operators had plenty of parking options while the project was being developed and would also work with the Pakenham Business Group.
Last year the council announced they would provide a total of 270 additional car parks (almost exactly the same number as the Treloar Lane car park) and will operate throughout the construction period, which is expected to be about 18 months.
Maps detailing these and other off-street parking areas have been provided to business operators to pass on to their customers and staff.
“The proposed developed will bring a range of benefits to Pakenham and council is committed to encouraging and fostering small business growth in the town and across Cardinia Shire,” she said.