Work starts on Cabarita complex

Mainbrace Constructions’ foreman Scott Taurey and TCDE manager Tye Ruddy have begun work to clear the way for a new shopping complex at Cabarita Beach.

Mairi Manley / TWE090212construc

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WORK has begun to "clear the decks" for a new shopping complex at Cabarita Beach.

Wire fencing was put up around the construction area this week with Mainbrace Constructions and Tweed Coast Demolition and excavations beginning to clear the area for demolition on Monday.

Mainbrace's site foreman for the project Scott Taurey said the old post office, Bogangar Auto care centre, a pizza shop and the Cabarita Beach Motel were targeted for demolition to make way for the Department of Planning-approved three-storey development.

It will take shape on an amalgamated 5485sq m property with street frontage to Tweed Coast Road and Hastings Road.

Woolworths will be housed in a 2300sq m tenancy, which includes a 200sq m mezzanine office level, and the remaining 1100sq m of retail space will be spread across up to 17 tenancies.

Stockwell development manager Sharon Waddell said the specialty retail component would include a broad mix of businesses.

"We are talking to banks, medical professionals, food retailers and fashion outlets," she said.

"The retail component will be retained by Stockwell and leased out."

The project will have parking for 204 vehicles.

Two lifts will provide access from the basement to the floors above.

Ms Waddell said the 4m-high grade difference from the front of the property meant the development would have to be stepped from two to three levels.

"The Tweed Coast Road frontage is designed to allow the retail component to spill out on to the streetscape with alfresco dining.

"The shops will have a glass facade with easy access off the street."

There will also be a separate access from the basement driveway on Hastings Road to the loading dock for the Woolworths tenancy.

A tunnel under the development will allow vehicle and pedestrian access for nearby properties.

"We are looking at the most durable and lightweight building material for the project," Ms Waddell said.