This decision unlocks a significant opportunity to enhance Balaclava's retail offerings, creating a more vibrant and welcoming destination for residents and visitors.
Importantly, the sale safeguards community interests, with any future development required to retain the same amount of free public parking, provide accessible public toilets, and deliver new open space.
About the land
The land proposed for sale includes part of the carpark adjacent to the Coles supermarket area enclosed by Carlisle, Alfred, Nelson, and Camden Streets, plus some laneways that will be discontinued - making up approximately 2,240m² of land in total.
The land has no strategic value to Council, with Coles owning the majority of the adjacent land. Coles plans to develop a mixed-use space, which would include a larger supermarket, additional retail opportunities, and housing. The final price for the land is to be determined via independent valuation and will be sold for no-less than market value with the proceeds used to fund investments in community infrastructure.
