Midland Gate expansion a stage closer

DELAYS in progress on the proposed $100 million expansion of the Midland Gate Shopping Centre appear to be nearing an end with new owners, Gandel Retail Management, making moves towards the construction phase.

The proposed multi-million dollar expansion includes an eight-screen cinema complex and entertainment precinct, a refurbished food court and a tavern.

The new centre has been designed to tie in with the Midland Redevelopment Authority philosophy of creating a main street focus.

Taylor Robinson B&N director Graham Taylor said the architectural firm had recently completed more detailed plans for the development to assist leasing workshops and a value engineering survey was currently being engaged.

“All indications are pointing towards the development progressing this year,” he said.

Mr Taylor said Gandel was in negotiations with several major discount department stores and, once a major tenant was locked away, construction would not be far off.

“We would be looking to have the first stage open by December 2004,” he said.

Gandel Retail Management development manager Seamus van der Westhvizen said the group was unable to comment, other than to say it was planning to have the whole development completed and operational by Christmas 2005.