Bigger is better in $320m …

By Lia Bichel
A MULTI-MILLION dollar redevelopment at Westfield Fountain Gate will make it the second largest shopping centre in the country once complete next year.
Construction is well under way for the $320 million redevelopment, which will expand the centre by 43 per cent and create more than 1000 jobs.
By the end of 2012, residents will be able to shop at new high-end fashion stores including a full-line Myer, 370 specialty stores, a children’s mall, a fresh food precinct and an expanded Target and Coles.
And if they don’t work up a sweat shopping at the new and improved stores, active locals can have a work-out at the centre’s gym.
Shoppers will be able to park with ease with an additional 1240 new car spaces at the centre.
The existing centre would also be renovated to compliment the new and modern space,
Centre manager Tim Broxham said the changes would be the first major upgrades at Westfield Fountain Gate in 10 years.
Marble, stone, timber and skylights will be used to create an urban and refined environment. The design will also include more seating arrangements, soft furnishings, decorative tiles, plywood canopies and tall trees. Free wi-fi will also be available for tech-savvy shoppers.
Mr Broxham said the changes should have little impact on existing traders and business hours.
“We are working with existing retailers to ensure there was little impact on their business during construction,” he said.
“And during Christmas it will be business as usual – with plenty of activities within the centre.”
The first phase of the redevelopment, which includes the new Coles Supermarket, fresh food area, gym and 40 to 50 retailers, is expected to be complete in May next year.
The remainder of the redevelopment which includes the completion of Myer’s, is expected to be complete the following October.