EPRA to study options for Northbridge supermarket

THE East Perth Redevelopment Authority is pushing ahead with plans for a new supermarket within the Northbridge renewal area, between Fitzgerald Street and Lord Street.

EPRA has commissioned Hames Sharley to look at the whether demand exists for a supermarket and where the development should be located within the renewal area.

“EPRA is looking at the overall infrastructure required for the Northbridge renewal area. The boundaries of the renewal area are Fitzgerald Street and Lord Street … the land that sits on top of the tunnel,” EPRA chief executive officer Tony Morgan said.

“The reason for the study is to determine the current provision (of supermarkets) in the area and if there is an under supply or over supply.”

EPRA claims the study will be completed by the end of September, with results released in October and November of this year.

Mr Morgan said that, while he could name a number of different sites within the area, it was too early to single out any specific locations.

Property industry sources have suggested a site on the corner of Beaufort and Newcastle streets has been earmarked for the supermarket.

“The site (on the corner of Beaufort and Newcastle streets) is obviously an attractive site, it’s purely speculation,” Mr Morgan said.

Hatch’s move into the redeveloped Supermail Centre on the corner of

Stirling Street and Newcastle Street has brought more than 300 staff to the area and prompted renewed speculation about development in the Stirling Street precinct.

The possibility of a new office retail development has been mooted by the owners of the retail property on the corner of Stirling and Aberdeen streets, the Mal Atwell Leisure Group.

Ray Atwell said Hatch looked like it might provide a catalyst for new development in the area.

“It’s been a very quiet area for a number of years but, with the tunnel, Hatch and the Myer Megamart and the council’s new planning scheme, hopefully something will happen in our corridor,” he said.

“Hatch has show that it (office developments) are worthwhile and EPRA is trying to promote people like Hatch to come in there just off the strip.”

Mr Atwell is keen to develop the site but a major commitment from a long-term tenant is necessary to get the ball rolling.

“Our idea is for a four-level building with underground parking and a retail or cafe on the ground floor,” he said.