Supermarket giant Woolworths has submitted a development application to build a new full-line store in a hinterland town.
The proposed development would be on a 6.6-hectare site at 125 Myall Street, Cooroy, and include the supermarket, specialty retail and services tenancies, and a 126-place residential care home.
Noosa Council’s online application tracking website shows the application – for a material change of use to establish a residential care facility and shopping centre, combined with the reconfiguration of a lot from one into three and access easement – was submitted by Project Urban on behalf of Fabcot Pty Ltd on May 24.
“We’re excited about the opportunity to deliver a high-quality retail development, alongside an aged care facility, at Cooroy,” a Woolworths spokesperson said.
“The proposal includes a new Woolworths supermarket, accompanied by an eight-bay direct-to-boot service.
“We believe our plans will contribute positively to Cooroy, creating hundreds of new jobs and providing a wider range of fresh produce, grocery and household items for the community.
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“This will also be the first time we’ve proposed to deliver an aged care facility next to one of our supermarkets, showcasing how we’re tailoring this development to the residents of Cooroy.
“We look forward to working with Noosa Shire Council over the coming months, and will continue to update the community as we progress.”
The project website, which has been used to gain feedback from local residents about the site masterplan, has been recently updated to reflect the project progressing to Stage 2.
“Following initial community engagement, which informed our planning, we submitted a development application with Noosa Council in May 2024,” it states.
“Your feedback in the early stages and local views were important in helping us shape plans for the site.
“We have now submitted a development application with council for a neighbourhood shopping centre and aged care home for the site.
“Woolworths is in the process of finding a suitable partner for the delivery of the residential aged care (RAC) home.
“The proposed RAC home is separated from the neighbourhood centre site to maintain resident privacy and safety.”
Woolworths purchased the land, which is opposite the golf club and 1.3km away from the main town centre, about three years ago. The site is zoned for community facilities.
The project website says the proposed development would have two access points: the primary access from Myall Street and secondary access from Ferrells Road.
More than 250 car spaces would be provided, the majority of them shaded.
Related story: Supermarket giant’s next step for major town project
Other parts of the plan include eight direct-to-boot pick-up bays, home delivery service and an alfresco dining area.
Sustainability is also considered, with the development targeting a four-star Green Star design and features such as rooftop solar and rainwater harvesting.
“A third of the site is dedicated to environmental rehabilitation and protection,” the website states.
The development would have “village-style” architecture to fit with Cooroy’s character.
“We’re proposing design elements that reflect this including weatherboard, tin roof and brick floor inlays,” it states.
Woolworths said it expected to provide further updates on the project across 2024.
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