It might take more than the $12-million redevelopment of Bellbowrie Shopping Plaza to convince retailers to stay on. Locals seem to be hoping that the site would be transformed into a health services precinct, a high school, or a community facility.
In a poll via the 4070 & 4069 Action Group, at least 39 per cent of the locals think Bellbowrie Shopping Plaza should be replaced with a 24/7 health centre or a high school building after ensuring its safety from floods. Some 23 per cent said the plaza must be turned into a library or a community facility with food and drinks options and a garden.
At least 16 per cent said that the shopping centre should be rebuilt with units, cafes and small retailers, whilst nine per cent believe Bunnings could take over the site. Four per cent said it could be used as a transport terminal for a new green bridge, whilst three per cent said it should be renovated with a limited line from a supermarket and small shops.
The suggestions come as Metcash, the parent company of IGA, recently confirmed they have no plans to build a supermarket at Bellbowrie Shopping Plaza, much to the disappointment of both shoppers and the remaining tenants who have been hoping that a supermarket would bring foot traffic.
After Coles moved out of Bellbowrie Shopping Plaza in June 2021, several closures followed suit, such as the Bellbowrie Bakery, Woka Woka Thai restaurant, Star Seafood & Burger, a hair salon and a doctor’s clinic.
Elizabeth Watson-Brown, Greens MP for Ryan, said: “The floods of early 2022 were the last straw for many tenants, but the decision of supermarket giant Coles to move to higher ground had already seen many shops in the centre close.”
The MP has earlier proposed to turn the site into a public facility.
“Moggill-Bellbowrie is in desperate need of more amenities, especially education and health. When people can access essential services near their homes, there’s much less need for them to get in the car and add to the traffic on congested roads!”
Meanwhile, upgrades and floodproofing are underway at Bellbowrie Shopping Plaza, which the owner hopes will entice new business as there are currently no plans to sell the property.
