A local grocer has raised concerns about a proposed $58.6 million Woolworths development in the heart of the affluent Sydney suburb.
Peter Morelli, owner of Parisi’s Food Hall, fears the new supermarket would stifle smaller businesses and disrupt the local community.
Woolworths’ development arm, Fabcot, has lodged plans with Woollahra Council for a four-storey building, including a ground-floor supermarket, 13 apartments, and basement parking. The company argues that the development would address a shortage of supermarkets in the eastern suburbs.
However, Morelli contends that the area already has sufficient supermarket options, including a Woolworths Metro, an IGA, and a Harris Farm. He worries that the new supermarket would draw customers away from smaller businesses, potentially forcing them to close.
Morelli expressed concern that the proposed Woolworths development would negatively impact smaller businesses. He argued that there was no need for another supermarket in Rose Bay and that it would likely harm existing local businesses.
Conversely, Woolworths maintains that the new supermarket would better serve the local community’s needs, which currently relies on a limited number of full-line supermarkets in nearby suburbs.
The proposed development has sparked debate among local residents. Some support the idea of a larger supermarket, while others share Morelli’s concerns about the impact on smaller businesses and the overall character of the suburb.
The Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel is expected to decide on the proposal.
Published Date 07-November-2024
