By XAVIER SMERDON
WORK on the long-awaited Werribee Plaza redevelopment finally began last week following an official ceremony.
The Plaza, which will now be known as Pacific Werribee, was opened in 1985 and over the next two years will be the focus of a $370 million overhaul.
Wyndham Mayor Bob Fairlcough said the redevelopment would boost economic activity in the area.
“Werribee Plaza is a major asset for the West,” Cr Fairclough said.
“The redevelopment of Werribee Plaza to Pacific Werribee will ensure the Centre becomes a destination for the rapidly growing community offering more retail and lifestyle choices.”
Graham Terry from the Pacific Group of Companies, who owns the shopping centre, said the redevelopment would create 400 jobs during the construction phase and up to 1500 retail jobs once complete.
It will see the size of the centre grow by over 35,000 square metres.
“The company is committed to building its flagship property into more than a shopping centre,” Mr Terry said.
“The plan has been developed to meet the needs of the customers, retailers and the community to be a first choice destination when it comes to retail and lifestyle experiences in the West.”
Probuild has been awarded the contract to complete the construction and early works have already commenced on a new dining and entertainment precinct.
A statement from the Pacific Group of Companies gave a detailed deadline for key works to be completed.
This month a new 10 bus terminal interchange will be opened while a new Target and specialty stores will open by the middle of 2015.
A new two-level Myer will be opened by the middle of 2016 while the fresh food precinct will be finished by late 2016.
