Woolworths is proposing to revitalise the Hawker shops
What is happening?
In the supermarket industry, a benchmark is one "full-line" supermarket for every 8,000-10,000 persons. We have identified that the area served by the Hawker supermarket contains approximately 28,000 persons. Based on the benchmark, at least 3 full-line supermarkets could comfortably operate in the Hawker community - yet there are none.
Further, our review of the broader Belconnen region indicates that the provision of supermarket floorspace is 282sqm per 1,000 residents. This is lower than both the ACT and Australian averages (334sqm/1,000 and 356sqm/1,000 respectively). Even with a larger supermarket at Hawker, this will still be the case.
This is what underpins our proposal to revitalise a section of the Hawker shopping precinct by providing a larger, modern supermarket with online shopping services and complementary shops and businesses.
During July and August 2023, we engaged with the local community to gather input to our plans for the area.
In March 2024 we submitted a Direct Sale Application to the ACT Government to purchase areas adjacent to our existing supermarket, including the car park.
If Woolworths is considered eligible for a Direct Sale of land, meeting the required legislative criteria, the sale of the land is generally conditioned upon receiving Development Approval (DA) from the Territory Planning Authority.
This approval would follow the standard processes, including public consultation, providing the community a further opportunity to understand and comment on any development plans prior to the sale of the land. The development will need to comply with planning principles, policies and specific assessment outcomes in the Territory Plan 2023. This includes provisions relating to traffic and parking.
The sale price for the land is determined by independent valuations. This usually occurs after obtaining an approved DA and the survey of the land.
Development concept
The proposed new development will comprise a full-range Woolworths supermarket, supplemented by Direct-to-Boot and Home Delivery facilities for online customers; new retail and food tenancies and space on the upper level for such uses as office, health and gym; all connected by outdoor public walkways and spaces.
A vastly improved playground will be part of the new development. This would become a meeting place for the community, promoting incidental and intergenerational interaction.
The proposed development site will be created by the amalgamation of 7 existing land parcels and the demolition of the Woolworths supermarket and the buildings between the supermarket and Hawker Place.
Review the Masterplan [PDF 49MB]
Our vision is to create a quality location with innovation, sustainability, and community at its heart. A place where the community can come to shop, meet and enjoy.
The ideas we have spoken to the community about include:
- A fresh, modern, and sustainable design
- A bigger Woolworths supermarket offering more for your full grocery needs
- Basement car parking spaces for safe and easy access
- Public spaces and landscaping that you can enjoy.
We engaged with the local community throughout July and August 2023*
We received emails through our website and held meetings with the community and other relevant stakeholders.
About the location
Hawker is at the centre of a thriving Canberra community, home to schools, sports grounds, and a range of community facilities.
Hawker Place provides a location for people across Hawker and the neighbouring suburbs of Weetangera, Page, and Scullin to access services and amenities with convenience and ease.
Located 9 km north-west from Canberra Civic, Hawker has direct bus routes to the city and nearby Belconnen Westfield via Belconnen Way, the main road that provides a connection to Canberra Civic. We are excited about what the future brings for Woolworths in the Hawker community.
Project timeline
Identification of potential to expand the Woolworths Metro at Hawker Place
Consideration of complementary amenities and services
Early community consultation to understand community sentiment on proposed project
Development of early concept designs
Direct Sale Application submitted to ACT Government to purchase the required extra land
Government assesses Direct Sale Application
If Application not approved by the Government, project ends.
If the eligibility for the Direct Sale is approved by government, Woolworths may then undertake design refinement and DA submission.
Design refinement and Pre-DA consultation on proposed designs
DA Submission and Assessment stage
Sale price determined: The sale price for the land is determined by independent valuations.
If DA approved and sale price agreed: Detailed design and construction stage.
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