Retail spending in Shire to double over next 20 years
Wyong Shire Council has adopted a detailed Retail Centres Strategy Review. The review was undertaken to look at the effects of the Shire’s projected population growth and forecast spending.
It shows a majority of the Shire’s population growth will be centred at the Warnervale/Wadalba area with 39,500 people expected to be living there within the next 20 years.
The Review also projects increased growth at The Entrance (14,400 people) and Wyong (10,000). In 2006, annual retail spending by Shire residents was estimated at $1.13 billion, while in 2031, this figure was expected to increase to $2.14 billion. These figures indicate a demand for an additional 183,453m2 of retail floor space by 2031. Based on these figures, the Strategy Review has recommended Village Centres for San Remo, Ourimbah, Wadalba East, Long Jetty and Lake Munmorah be improved and the priority that is the Warnervale Town Centre. These centres would compliment existing shopping and town centres such as Tuggerah, Wyong, The Entrance, Toukley, Lake Haven, Bateau Bay, Killarney Vale, Chittaway and Budgewoi. “It is important we look at these figures seriously in order to cater for the Wyong Shire of the future,’’ Mayor Warren Welham said. “We need to ensure that our residents’ needs are adequately met when it comes to infrastructure and retail facilities given the expected population growth of the Shire. “People continue to move to the Shire at a rapid rate because of the great lifestyle this area can provide for growing families and it’s Council’s job to ensure we provide them with a place they are proud to call home. “That’s why these reviews are more than important and must be taken on board.’’
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