A supermarket giant has begun community engagement as it shapes a master plan for a major development in a hinterland town.
After purchasing 6.6ha of land in Cooroy two years ago, Woolworths is preparing to lodge a development application for the new project with Noosa Council.
The proposed site for the development is at 125 Myall Street, Cooroy – opposite the golf club and 1.3km away from the main town centre.
But before submitting the application, the supermarket chain is calling for feedback and help from the local community to design its master plan.
It comes after the developers of nearby GemLife Cooroy await to hear whether the proposed retirement resort, located at 144 Myall Street, will get the green light.
The site earmarked to house the state-of-the-art Woolworths supermarket is zoned for Community Facilities.
A Woolworths spokesperson confirmed two-thirds of the site was available for retained vegetation and community-led uses.
The chain has begun engaging local residents about the master plan and what extra services are wanted for the area.
“We need the community’s help in deciding what complementary facilities are desired in the area so we can make that dream a reality through our investment,” the spokesperson said.
“There are plenty of options for what this additional use could be, including a childcare centre, healthcare facility or residential aged care, to name a few.
“It’s important to us that the community has their say, and they can do so in a range of ways including via online survey, email or our dedicated project website.”
The spokesperson said the chain was excited about the opportunity to update the community on its master plan for the development.
“We’ll be considering an overall design that reflects Cooroy’s heritage, and its unique village feel, while combining it with environmentally sustainable measures,” the spokesperson said.
“We believe our plans will contribute positively to Cooroy and the region, creating hundreds of new jobs, providing a wider range of fresh produce, grocery and household items, along with specialty retail and facilities designed with the community in mind.
“Our desire is to create a development that enriches the lifestyle of Cooroy and nearby hinterland towns, so we’ll ensure the community remains informed should we have any updates.
“We intend to work very closely with Noosa Shire Council and look forward to receiving feedback from local residents over the coming months.”
A Noosa Council spokesperson said council would consider the application once submitted.
Fellow supermarket giant Coles is also awaiting approval on an application for its 14th grocery outlet in the region at Palmwoods.
For more information and to give feedback on additional facilities for the proposed Woolworth development at Cooroy click here.
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