Bunnings reveals plans for new, $16 million store

The hardware retailer wants to build an outlet twice the size of its existing one in Murray Bridge.

Bunnings has revealed plans for a new, $16 million store in Murray Bridge.

The new store would employ an extra 65 staff at a site on Maurice Road, just around the corner from the existing store on Adelaide Road.

Its floor area of about 7600 square metres would be almost double that of the existing store, and it would include more than 160 car parks.

Area manager Justine Burrage said all current Bunnings team members would transfer to the new store when it was completed.

Another 100 people would also be employed during construction.

In a report prepared for the council, consultants URPS described the new store as a “significant investment” in Murray Bridge, but one which would be justified as the city's population grew.

Bunnings was encouraged by the local council’s Make It Yours campaign, which predicted the district’s population would reach 29,000 in a decade, the consultants said.

URPS predicted the expansion would allow Bunnings to generate an extra $70,000 worth of investment for local community groups each year, including by hosting sausage sizzle fundraisers.

The site of the new store is currently a vacant block which appears to be used to agist livestock.

Bunnings will vacate its current building when the new one is finished.

Members of the public currently have an opportunity to give feedback on the proposal.

Public consultation is required because the proposed land use – retail – is not typical for the area, which is zoned for light industry.

However, URPS argued that there were many similar properties nearby.

• Have your say: Email planning@murraybridge.sa.gov.au or write to the Rural City of Murray Bridge, PO Box 421, Murray Bridge SA 5253 by close of business on Thursday, September 3.

Photo: Peri Strathearn. Image: Bunnings.