Construction work on Farmers new Hastings store begins

Wallace Development Co Ltd has begun work (Wednesday) on the site of the former Roachs’ Department Store, which will become the new retail centre for Farmers.

The 6500 square metre on the corner of Heretaunga and King Streets, will take 12 months to build and then undergo an internal fit out, before it opens to the public.

Project Manager for site owner, Wallace Development Company, Steve Birkhead says “the surrounding retailers are positive about the value the new store will bring to the area and how it will contribute to the revitalization of the Hastings CBD”.

“The new store will accommodate both of Farmers existing stores over two floors and is expected to contribute significantly to the Hastings retail market”.

Mr Birkhead says” local company Gemco Construction has been engaged for this project and is also building the new Warehouse on the former Nelson Park site, which means they are involved in the two largest building projects in Hastings at the present time”.

Deputy Mayor Cynthia Bowers says “the development will further enhance the shopping experience and is a huge boost to the inner city”.

“The development signals a massive opportunity for Hastings retail, as vacated tenancies can be backfilled and smaller retailers will be able to capitalize on the increased foot traffic generated by the combined store” Cr Bowers says.

Former Retail Strategist for Hastings City Marketing and District Councillor Sandra Hazelhurst worked with the owners of the old Roachs’ building, Wallace Development and Farmers over a two year period, to have the new store built on Heretaunga Street.

Cr Hazelhurst says “developers offered Farmers three different sites on the periphery of the CBD but, as the company is a fashion retailer, it was imperative to find a site amongst similar stores for comparison shopping.

“The start of construction shows the company has confidence in the Hastings retail market and that is expected to have a flow on effect, as several national tenants have deferred a decision on opening in the city, until the location of Farmers was finalized” Mrs Hazelhurst says.

TSB Bank will continue to operate from the building during the construction period and traffic management plans have been prepared to ensure minimal disruption around the site and inconvenience to the public.

The new Famers store is due to open to the public in August 2012.