The Glen in Melbourne’s south east will undergo a $490 million transformation to create the ‘The New Glen’, a local lifestyle and community destination that will integrate retail, dining and entertainment.
The New Glen is expected to be completed by early 2020 and will be developed in stages over three years, with the first to be unveiled later this year.
Vicinity Centres and co-owners Perron Group have revealed plans about the project, which was officially launched by Victoria’s Minister for Industry and Employment, the Honourable Wade Noonan MP.
“Inspired by the sophisticated and diverse local community, it is time that The Glen evolves to meet the changing needs of our customers,” said Angus McNaughton, CEO and managing director of Vicinity Centres. “The New Glen will elevate the customer experience to create a boutique destination where food, fashion and people come together.”
The New Glen will be expanded to approximately 78,000sqm of gross lettable area and will include a fresh food market hall, two dining precincts, a Town Square, the latest format David Jones, new mini majors and international brands.
A fresh food market hall, anchored by a new Aldi, the latest format Woolworths, and a Coles supermarket, will also feature a wide selection of boutique food retailers.
Vicinity said the new centre has been designed for easy access and navigation through a ‘race track’ configuration with several cross malls to improve sight lines.
With construction commencing this month, the redevelopment will create an estimated 2350 jobs including 1150 jobs through construction and 1200 ongoing retail and hospitality roles at the completed centre.
“Reflecting what today’s customers want and a shifting preference towards more relaxed and casual dining, another attraction of the new centre will be two dining precincts,” McNaughton said.
A contemporary food gallery, where diners will enjoy unobstructed views overlooking the Dandenong Ranges, will offer a selection of dining options.
An indoor-outdoor casual dining hub with restaurants and cafes spanning over two levels and overlooking a new Town Square will be open throughout the day and evening.
McNaughton said the centre will showcase international, Australian brands and 240 select retailers upon completion.
“We will welcome the latest format David Jones offering the world’s leading brands across fashion, beauty and homewares over two levels, a new premium fashion mall,” McNaughton added.
The centre’s architecture, featuring a ‘veil’ effect that unifies the entire project, is inspired by international trends, and the Springvale Road facade has been designed to engage the local community.
“This development is all about delivering a boutique and well-crafted design, inspired by our discerning local community. While increasing in size, our objective is to ensure The New Glen remains intimate, accessible and convenient, with a casual sophistication,” said Ross Robertson, Perron Group’s CEO.
Access exclusive analysis, locked news and reports with Inside Retail Weekly. Subscribe today and get our premium print publication delivered to your door every week.
