ABOUT 400 new jobs have come to Maribyrnong with the opening of the first stage of Highpoint’s $300 million redevelopment.
Thousands of shoppers who turned out on Thursday for the opening celebrations of the new fresh food market and ‘eco mall’ were treated to cooking demonstrations, free sample bags and roving entertainers.
A bustling crowd explored the 4200-square-metre Woolworths supermarket, 15 fresh food retailers and 20 retail stores.
Development manager Mark Pheely said the idea behind the fresh food area was to create a traditional ‘market’ atmosphere.
He said recycled timber and rainwater harvesting were nods to environmental sustainability, and ‘nooks and crannies’ of discovery such as bay trees and growing lettuce leaves which people could pick and take home were “points of difference” he hoped would set the project apart.
Centre manager Scott Crellin said the retail mix featured a wide range of children’s wear, and new parking for more than 600 cars had ‘smart park’ technology with LED lighting showing where spaces were free.
Shopper Agnes Leitch, of Werribee, said the redevelopment was a lovely surprise. “I come each week and meet my sister from St Albans,” she said. “All this fresh food is great.”
A fortnight of opening celebration activities continues this week with demonstrations by well-known Melbourne chefs, food tours, foodie sample bags and entertainment.
