Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea, has held talks this morning (Tuesday) with Stockland over its decision to demolish all but Woolworths Supermarket, at the Glenrose Shopping Village.
“The decision by Stockland has left shopkeepers shell-shocked as they face an uncertain future,” Mr O’Dea said.
“Their businesses are their lifeblood and some face financial disaster by Stockland’s decision to only provide a guarantee of tenancy until June 30th.
“Stockland’s move to demolish the centre is in response to an apparent requirement by the Department of Environment and Climate Change to address contaminated groundwater beneath the complex.
“Any plan to excavate the site should take into account the livelihood of the shopkeepers,” Mr O’Dea said.
“I have visited the centre and spoken with many of the shop owners who are clearly distressed by the latest developments.
“In my talks with Stockland I have asked that any remediation works take into account a reasonable expectation by various tenants that they will be able to continue trading,” he said.
“I have also asked Stockland to provide a greater clarity over the environmental risk posed by the ground contamination.
“Stockland indicated a willingness to explore the issues and address them in a positive way,” Mr O’Dea said.
“Local residents are also expressing concerns their shopping village is to be removed without any council approved plans for its replacement.
“Residents will be forced to travel outside the immediate area to purchase everyday items,” Mr O’Dea concluded.
