Bunnings store takes shape as opening nears

National hardware retailer Bunnings has confirmed its Narrabri store development is nearing completion.

Doors are expected to open for the Newell Highway site by October.

Bunnings area manager Deb Thompson said recruitment for its local store had been completed, with around 40 new team member jobs created in the community.

“Internal racking, shelving and signage has now commenced, and car park and landscaping works are ongoing,” she said.

“We will soon be busy filling the shelves with thousands of products as we prepare for opening and we look forward to welcoming customers to the new store soon.”

External barriers have come down as the outside work of the store development nears completion.

Workers are busily preparing the car park and vehicle entry areas ahead of the opening.

While the external work nears completion, the focus is shifted on the internal fit-out in anticipation of the October opening.

The development of a Bunnings store represents a $15 million investment in the venture, and it is anticipated the Narrabri store will cater for the North West region.

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.

Access to the store will take place from Saleyards Lane.

At the time of its development application in 2020, Bunnings estimated that $15.1 million was spent at hardware businesses outside the region, including at Bunnings stores in Tamworth and Inverell.

“Narrabri has been identified as a store location for Bunnings in view of the significant regional service role of the town,” the company said in its response to submissions lodge in relation to the development in 2020.

Of 35 submissions, 32 were in favour of the project, and three were against.

“The proposed Bunnings Narrabri represents a tangible expression by Bunnings (and parent company Wesfarmers) in support of the economic potential of the town, and the important regional service role and function that Narrabri serves to surrounding areas,” Bunnings’ response said at the time.

“The proposal reflects a strong level of confidence in the economic prospects of the town and region, rather than a concern relating to economic vulnerability.”