Shopping frenzy in Northam

The opening was followed by a Family Fun Day on Saturday, that included live music, balloon twisting and face painting.

The shopping complex, located on the corner of Gairdner Street and Beamish Avenue, began construction in March.

Northam Village Square developer Greg Pearce said he was impressed with the massive turnout on Wednesday and Saturday.

“It’s phenomenal and great for the town,” he said.

“I couldn’t believe the crowds last week – it was great.”

Mr Pearce said a redeeming quality of the shopping complex was the car park.

“It’s huge with oversized car bays for big vehicles in the country,” he said.

“Typically carparks are tight and it’s hard to get out – but this is the opposite. 

“And there's no kerbing so you can take your trolley wherever.”

Northam Shire chief executive officer Jason Whiteaker said the development had been contemplated for about two years. 

“I know we’ve been talking with Aldi for the past two to three years,” he said.

Mr Whiteaker said the complex is good for the region, not just for Northam.

“It’s going to be a good regional asset – it’s beautiful,” he said. 

Mr Whiteaker said about 100 jobs became available from this development. 

He said the community should be excited about the direction of Northam and added that the Shire had engaged a branding firm, to attract tourists, residents and investors.

“We have just engaged a branding firm called JuiceBox,” Mr Whiteaker said. 

“We will talk to the community in the next six weeks about the brand of Northam, what it is and what’s unique about it. Then we will look to ramp up the marketing of Northam next year.”