Westfield signals significant changes to its proposed shopping centre in Newmarket

30 May 2002

Countries: New Zealand

Shopping centre developer Westfield New Zealand is signaling major changes to the original design for its proposed new shopping and entertainment centre on the corner of Remuera Road and Nuffield Street, Newmarket

Its original proposal was withdrawn earlier last year to allow for more extensive consultation with the community.

Westfield Director John Widdup says that since then Westfield has conducted an exhaustive process of community consultation including undertaking ongoing research, attending more than 60 meetings and taking more than 600 people through the Nuffield Street Development Centre which provides comprehensive information on the proposed development.

"The key changes, which are in direct response to issues raised in the consultation process, fall into three areas:

• Reduced size and scale of the proposed buildings
• Nuffield Street is to be developed as a safe, "people friendly" space without an airbridge
• New traffic management proposals which will divert main traffic flows away from bottle-necks in Broadway."

John Widdup said the development will now be three retail levels that will complement the overall style of Newmarket.

"The design gives the impression of a number of distinct small buildings rather than a single structure. The development will have an exciting range of around 120 shops, plus majors, as well as alfresco dining and cafes. There will also be eight cinemas.

"The proposed airbridge over Nuffield Street has been removed from the design. Nuffield Street will be a sheltered and attractive pedestrian area, with direct access to Broadway."

The artist's impressions have been prepared by Westfield's architects and reviewed by architectural consultancies which have also provided their input into the design concepts.

"Revised traffic proposals incorporate new traffic flow control systems which divert traffic out of the main shopping area, and offer better access to public transport, and improved and safer pedestrian access.

"Research shows that visiting shoppers are more concerned about getting a certain carpark in Newmarket than they are about traffic congestion. The Centre will have more than 2000 carparks with multiple access points, with the first three hours of parking free.

"The project is estimated to cost about $300 million and will boost the local economy, creating jobs in construction and retail.

"It will provide improved retail and entertainment facilities to a rapidly growing area, ensuring that Newmarket retains its position as Auckland's premier shopping precinct, meeting the demand from retailers for more quality retail space in Auckland and bringing new retailers to New Zealand," said John Widdup.