TAKING SHAPE: Steel framework going up at Bunnings development

Steel framework has started to be placed at the development of Narrabri’s Bunnings store in recent weeks, signalling the next phase in the development’s progress.

Earthworks machinery and construction crews have been busily preparing the Newell Highway site for the development of the national hardware giant’s store.

The company has also commenced recruitment of store management positions in readiness to open its local doors.

Construction of the site is expected to create 45 jobs as well as 45 jobs once the store is open for business.

The development of a Bunnings store in Narrabri, to service towns in the North West, represents a $15 million investment in the venture.

The store will span more than 5000 square metres on its highway site, on the edge of the Narrabri industrial
estate.

It will feature a main retail area, outdoor nursery, timber and building materials area, as well as parking for more than 80 cars.

Bunnings area manager Deb Thompson provided an update to The Courier on the commercial development.

“Construction is currently progressing well at the Bunnings Narrabri site, with Pluim Group making significant progress despite recent weather events,” she said.

“Earthworks and reinforcing works are currently underway as well as preparation for the install of the store’s steel structure.

“We look forward to opening the doors and expect to welcome local residents to the new store in late 2022.”

Narrabri Shire Council staff were onsite to discuss the development’s progress with project construction workers on Tuesday afternoon.

Council’s economic development manager Bill Birch and strategic planner Michelle Henry met with construction site manager Adrian Simmons and siting engineer Huss Azawi.

Mr Birch said the fact that a national organisation sees fit to set up operations in Narrabri is good news.

“Narrabri will be part of Bunnings’ 400 outlets of operations across Australia,” Mr Birch said.

“It is pleasing to see such a large investment in Narrabri.

“By establishing a presence here, Bunnings sees future growth opportunities in the shire.”

“This is a substantial national business which will employ local people.”

The construction project went to tender in May last year and its ground-breaking in August marked another milestone in the store’s development.

The installation of framework and expected concreting activities signals the development is closer to fruition.

As part of the development approval granted by Narrabri Shire Council in 2020.

Bunnings entered into a voluntary planning agreement to pay a contribution towards upgrades to the intersection of Newell Highway and

Saleyards Lane to accommodate an increase in traffic as a result of the store.

Some modifications have already been made to Saleyards Lane, with a turning lane added in preparation for the commercial development.

As part of the development application process completed in 2020, Bunnings responded to concerns raised about the project during the consultation phase.

In one of its responses, Bunnings said Narrabri has been identified as a store location for Bunnings in view of the significant regional service role of the town.

“This includes the ability to attract customers seeking access to a Bunnings from other towns in the surrounding region, including Moree, Boggabri, Wee Waa, etc.

“Store data indicates customers from Narrabri and surrounds are currently travelling a significant distance to existing Bunnings stores (primarily Tamworth and Inverell), representing ‘escape spending’ from the region by customers seeking the popular Bunnings warehouse store format.”