This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
THE Gold Coast shopping precinct, Australia Fair, is set for redevelopment after receiving development approval for a $50 million upgrade.
Located at 42 Marine Parade, the 59,540sqm dual-level Southport shopping centre is owned by Retail First and opened as Australia Fair in 1990.
The redevelopment will see architectural updates made to its main façade and the street frontage on the Nerang Street entrance, with new additions at the centre to include a 1,900sqm Planet Fitness gym, a 600sqm Asian Supermarket, a new rooftop bar and café, amongst other new retailers.
“Trade is positive and we have recently experienced one of the best months to date with our retailers and cinema, and Australia Fair’s redevelopment will only build the momentum of the centre as a must-visit precinct to shop, dine and play on the Gold Coast,” said Ramon Otten, centre manager.
The works will also include a new pedestrian entrance from Marine Parade, including lift access, escalator upgrades, upgraded skylights and new amenities on the ground floor, including a functional parents’ room and an adult change facility.
“From seniors to tourists and CBD workers, our philosophy has always been centred around offering an accessible retail destination that has everything you need at your fingertips,” said Otten.
The works will also deliver a greater food offering, including a food and beverage laneway called Broadwater Lane.
“We know our centre is much loved for our extensive range of services such as the post office, justice of the peace, dentist, podiatrist and medical practitioners, and we are now going to expand our offering with more dining options, shopping and lifestyle experiences,” added Otten.
The centre will look to re-tenant existing retailers, while also welcoming new operators, as part of a “considered retail leasing strategy”.
“Long-time favourites including Bras N Things, Just Jeans, TerryWhite Chemmart and Williams Shoes and are here to stay, whilst we welcome exciting new brands to Australia Fair such as Planet Fitness, Keep Fitness Pilates, 2 Brothers Barbers, Expresso Max, Hao Supermarket, PappaRich and Nene Chicken,” concluded Otten.
The multi-stage redevelopment is scheduled for an early 2023 completion, with works on the centre’s northern end will commence from 27 July and trading to continue as normal throughout the duration.
