Developer Shepparton Pty Ltd submitted plans to Greater Shepparton City Council on Tuesday for the development, which Shepparton Pty Ltd director Sam Herszberg said would be one of the biggest stimuli to the economy “in years”.
Debate over commercial development in Shepparton North has stalled for years, with proposals for a site at the corner of Ford Rd and Numurkah Rd hobbled by zoning requirements.
A permit for two supermarkets and shops on the Hawkins St site is owned by Metcash, which Shepparton Pty Ltd has conditionally committed to purchase.
A proposal earlier this year for a build at the Ford Rd site from developer Lascorp would no longer require rezoning, potentially clearing the way for both sites to be built.
Mr Herszberg said the $63 million Hawkins Rd development would provide jobs for Shepparton and be a commercial hub once complete.
He said the company was working with council for applications on traffic matters.
“With the Post Office, Tatts, several other fast-food outlets, service stations, pharmacy, convenience stores and liquor outlets all at or walking distance to Hawkins St, this centre of activity is fast becoming a major destination for shopping in Shepparton, and north Shepparton in particular,” Mr Herszberg said.
“This is a huge step forward for Shepparton and a major financial commitment by Shepparton Pty Ltd.
“The creation of new jobs in construction and the facilitating of hundreds of ongoing, local jobs in the retail and other services located at and around Hawkins St is a major driver of the regional economy.”
He said the “anchor” tenant of the site would be Fairleys IGA.
“They have been serving the Shepparton community for more than 130 years and will have a great new store from which to continue deliver its service,” Mr Herszberg said.
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