Change starts for Umina
The upgrade of a carpark in Umina marks the beginning of change to the Umina commercial area, according to Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales.
The work included the addition of shade sails and area extensions to the existing BiLo supermarket carpark in Oscar St.
"The business community is pleased to see that the major retailers are taking more care to provide better amenities for shoppers in the town centre," Mr Wales said.
"The construction of shade sails and extensions to the existing carpark has made a significant difference to the amenity of the centre.
"It is an indication that the major supermarkets are prepared to improve the shopping experience for their customers and comes at a time when there is increased competition from other supermarkets such as Woolworths who have commenced construction on their West St site.
"We also understand that Coles Group will soon commence a major refurbishment of the BiLo store which will be rebadged to the Coles brand sometime next year.
"Coupled with the opening next door of the Woolworths Caltex service station, we believe that this will sharpen competition and mean cheaper prices for Peninsula residents."
Mr Wales said the chamber would "closely monitor" council's new planning controls which were due to be placed on exhibition early next year.
"The Peninsula Chamber will be watching carefully how the new planning controls will affect the Umina Beach shopping centre as we are all conscious of the need to provide incentives for business to grow and expand," Mr Wales said.
"Early indications are good and it would seem that council has listened to our concerns over better planning controls including increased heights and floor space ratios."
Press release, 29 Oct 2009
Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce