Work to begin on construction of new retail development for Salamander Bay

Preliminary construction works will begin on a seven-lot subdivision to expand the retail offering at Salamander Bay after Port Stephens Council appointed a contractor to undertake the project.

Daracon has been awarded the tender for civil construction works to create seven lots, a new bus interchange and associated improvements to the road network at 155 Salamander Way, in the Salamander Shopping Centre precinct.

The project includes the installation of traffic lights and pedestrian crossings at the intersection of Bagnall Beach Road and Town Centre Circuit, as well as a second access road for the Salamander Shopping Centre to be called Central Avenue, off Bagnall Beach Road.
Sean Fox, Council's Land Acquisition and Development Manager, "The design for the subdivision will result in significant improvements for vehicles and pedestrians in what is a very busy shopping centre,"
"Seven lots will be created, including four lots for immediate development, and we will see a new dedicated bus interchange adjacent to McDonald's and traffic lights at the intersection of Bagnall Beach Road and Town Centre Circuit with provision for pedestrians.
"As well as the economic benefits that come with new commercial land and potential new businesses, improving the road network and accessibility for pedestrians was a key part of the subdivision design and we are confident this is the best outcome.
"However, while reasonable access to the shopping centre will be maintained, there will be impacts on traffic during the construction phase and we thank the community in advance for your patience and cooperation with traffic controls."

In late 2015 Council resolved to sell or lease three of the lots, and is now in negotiations on the fourth lot.
Mr Fox said the new lots had the potential to accommodate a variety of uses and Council was continuing its conversations with potential purchasers.
"There's been strong ongoing interest in the land from a wide range of users that will complement and support the existing shopping centre and make this location the dominant retail precinct on the Tomaree peninsula," he said.