PAKENHAM’S newest shopping centre was officially opened last week.
The $7 million shopping village at Lakeside features Bi Lo’s first supermarket in the Shire of Cardinia and 10 specialty stores.
Council mayor Garry Runge officially launched the centre, which covers 3500 square metres and was developed by Keystone.
Delfin Lend Lease project director Ian Heath said there was strong demand for retail services from more than 1900 residents at Lakeside and about 18,000 who lived in the Pakenham area.
“The decision to locate the retail precinct within walking distance to all Lakeside homes was prompted by our residents’ desire to reduce traffic congestion,” he said.
“Not only can residents access a wide variety of shopping conveniences, but they can leave their cars at home and not worry about parking and traffic jams during peak shopping times.
“It is much safer for parents shopping with their children, and certainly more enjoyable with the increasing number of parks and playgrounds along the way.”
Mr Heath said more than 90 per cent of the new Bi Lo’s employees lived at Lakeside Pakenham, making the supermarket the estate’s largest employer.
