THE new shopping centre earmarked for the old Northam hospital site, on Beamish Avenue, on the corner of Wellington and Gairdner streets, is open for public comment.
Various documents relating to the are on the Shire of Northam website.
Artists’ concepts show elevations of the main building and various other stores, along with the master plan.
The existing hospital building will be demolished to make way for key tenants Coles, Aldi and Best and Less.
In order to demolish the old hospital building, the telecommunications infrastructure on its roof will be replaced with a facility located to the rear of the site.
Supermarket chain Aldi has stores in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, with South Australia and Western Australia stores opening soon.
There are plans for up to 70 stores to open in Western Australia.
Northam Shire president Steven Pollard thought it was a good thing Aldi was coming to Northam.
“I realise increased competition brings about advantages and disadvantages,” he said.
“It could bring about reasonable prices, but how big is the market?
“There are only so many shoppers, but the hope is Northam will grow.”
Also listed on the master plan is a Coles Express, which is a chain of fuel and convenience stores and a liquor store.
Retractable bollards would be placed in front of the new Coles store with some also in front of Aldi’s premises.
Cr Pollard said he was not sure what the speciality stores would entail.
Public submissions in relation to the proposal are to be received by the shire no later than September 18.
To make a submission, visit northam.wa.gov.au/current-applications-for-comment.aspx
Details of the application are also available at the Shire of Northam administration office and the Northam Library.
Further information can be obtained by contacting the shire’s planning department on 9622 6143.