By Corey Everitt
Ambiguity still surrounds the much anticipated proposal for a Costco in the South East, specifically floated in the Pakenham and Officer area.
Rumours circulate online regularly about a new proposed site heard second-hand or from supposed insider information, ever since the international wholesale giant announced a proposal for a warehouse in Kaduna Business Park in Officer South.
The proposal was supported by Cardinia Shire Council, but was dramatically shot down by the State Government who believed it infringed on the State-significant industrial land planned for Officer South.
The South East is certainly a desired location for Costco, Costco Australia Chief Executive Officer Patrick Noone has previously been quoted saying the Pakenham and Officer area was ‘very attractive’ for the company.
In a recent statement from Costco Australia Country manager, Chris Tingman neither confirmed nor denied that Costco would find a home in the area.
“We are always on the lookout for new warehouse locations,” Mr Tingman said.
“Our focus is to find the right location to meet our specifications so that we can ensure every warehouse offers a wide range of products and services of the highest quality at the best possible price.
“Our warehouses are quite sizable in order to be able to house our comprehensive range of goods and specialty department services.
“A typical warehouse is about 14,000 square metres.
“We also look for lots that can house our fuel stations and sizable car parks as well.
“Unfortunately, at this time we cannot confirm a secured future site location in the Pakenham/Officer area.”
Cardinia Shire Council is still supportive of a warehouse in Cardinia, Mayor Kowarzik said it was a part of their push to get more local jobs.
“We’ve been advocating hard for more local jobs, and with around 70 per cent of residents leaving Cardinia Shire every day for work, I’m still hopeful that Costco can be a part of the solution,“ Mayor Kowarzik said.
“I also recognise that our community wants more retail options, they don’t want to have to travel around 45 minutes to access another store.”
