MAJOR excavation work has begun on the $40 million redevelopment and expansion of Warwick’s Rose City Shoppingworld.
Queensland-based property developer McConaghy Group has started the bulk excavation for the basement carpark.
McConaghy Group Managing Director Robert McConaghy said the redevelopment was progressing well with works now signalling the start of the major construction phase.
“The transformation of Rose City will enhance the Warwick CBD and bring an exciting new shopping experience to the people of Warwick and surrounds,” Mr McConaghy said.
“Formal marketing for new retail tenancies is underway and we’re very pleased with the interest and enquiry received to date.”
Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Tracy Dobie welcomed the work.
“This is a great opportunity for Warwick and the Southern Downs Region right now,” she said.
“This will increase opportunities for local business people and during construction will also develop more opportunities for employment.”
In all, the redevelopment will see 25,000 cubic metres of soil being excavated for the basement car park, 200 tonnes of structural steel being installed and 16,000 cubic metres of concrete being placed.
A new sewer and storm water system is being installed on Palmerin Street and Fitzroy Street to allow the basement carpark to be dug.
New submains for three 1.5Kva pad-mounted transformers are being installed this week which will power the shopping centre and surrounding infrastructure.
The new main mall entry on the corner of Palmerin and Fitzroy Streets has seen the Westpac building being partially dismantled to allow for the construction of a new building for Westpac adjoining the current location.
The first concrete pour for the new Westpac building has just been completed.
The expansion will include more than 160 additional car spaces with a new basement entry off Fitzroy Street, 20 additional specialty shops, an enhanced food court with seating provided for up to 300 people and a new parent room and amenities.
Completion of the Rose City redevelopment is expected in mid-to-late 2017 and the project is expected to employ up to 300 construction workers.
Coles Supermarket will bring a new market-style full line Coles supermarket to Rose City in place of the previous Bilo store.
Other features include a new travelator and a new lift with access to the expanded undercover parking, and a new landscaped arbour adjacent to Leslie Park.
Rose City Shoppingworld centre management has been relocated onto Palmerin Street.
Information to customers on the redevelopment will be available in the centre or by contacting centre management on (07) 4667 0142.
