The retail sector has experienced a downturn in recent years across the country, with pressure felt from both online channels and COVID-19. However, some centre owners saw this quieter period as an opportunity to redefine themselves, grow their shopping centres, and invest in their local economies.
PDT is delighted to be working with McConaghy Properties on a selection of their centres, including Castletown, a sub-regional in Townsville. At the heart of the McConaghy portfolio is the strong belief in 'family' and 'community'. Their latest $34M re-development proposal reflects this ethos, by providing a relaxed, light-filled 'family space' that emulates the comfort and style of Tropical North Queensland, while increasing customer dwell time and discretionary spend for the retailers.
Anchored by in-coming major Coles, the design re-purposes the existing mall food court and western box (formerly Target), to deliver additional mini-majors and specialities, which promise to bring an exciting mix of fresh local traders and national retailers to Castletown. This new mall precinct will provide a new statement entrance addressing Woolcock Street. This shaded external public space, with battened canopies and green arbours, emulates coolth and provides relief from the elements before the customer passes through the welcoming glazed entry.
The palette of light timbers and textures, natural stones, high level clerestory glazing, and introduced greenery integrate with the existing finishes to evoke the easy-going nature of a tropical home away from home. Externally, the project rejuvenates existing functionality, with new basement vehicle and pedestrian access, rationalised car park layouts, Coles Click and Collect facilities, and upgraded amenities. The incorporation of new centre branding to facades and landscaping, will lift all existing site thresholds, and define Castletown as a Townsville staple shopping destination.
Coupled with the enhanced internal shopping experience, this holistic package will balance the footfall throughout the centre, retain the 'mission' shoppers, and solidify the attraction for younger families. The re-development's focus on convenience, casual confidence and familiarity will optimise the centre's retail performance by maintaining Castletown's market position as the centre of choice for customer experience in 'rediscovering the everyday' throughout their shopping journey.
PDT are pleased that construction is underway onsite, with the first stage due for completion in Dec 2021, and Coles open for trading in the first quarter of 2022.
Further information:
Please contact, Natasha Prasek.
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