Southern River residents are set for a major fast-food boost with the approval of a new commercial precinct featuring drive-thru outlets for popular chains Nando's and Guzman y Gomez.
Council Greenlights Zoning Amendments
The City of Gosnells council approved crucial zoning changes on Tuesday night, paving the way for the Southern River Commercial Precinct. The development will transform a currently vacant block at the key intersection of Holmes Street and Southern River Road, directly opposite the Southern River Square shopping centre.
The approved amendments significantly alter the original plans for the site. For stage one, the council reduced the number of planned shop tenancies from six to one. This change allows for the construction of a new 241-square-metre fast-food outlet with a two-lane drive-thru, which is expected to become a Guzman y Gomez restaurant.
What's Included in the Development
The first stage of the precinct is now set to include:
- The Guzman y Gomez drive-thru restaurant.
- A previously approved Hungry Jack's restaurant.
- A retail tenancy, a fuel station, and a cafe.
- A gym or additional retail space.
Stage two of the project also received council backing for amendments, reducing planned shop tenancies from nine to three. This stage will feature another drive-thru fast-food outlet, anticipated to be the Nando's restaurant. An approved liquor store will be relocated slightly to the north-east within the site.
Additional facilities approved for stage two include a childcare premises, a medical centre, and two other fast-food outlets positioned closer to Campine Drive at the southern end of the lot.
Community and Environmental Considerations
The overall development promises substantial infrastructure, including 172 car parking bays. In a move to enhance local amenity, the plans incorporate the planting of 42 trees across the two stages. The City of Gosnells believes this will provide a suitable level of tree canopy and positively contribute to the area's character.
The project is being managed by Perth urban design and planning consultancy TBB Planning Pty Ltd, acting on behalf of landowner M.E.A.L. Pty Ltd. State planning officials originally approved stage one of the commercial centre in December 2018, with stage two receiving approval in April 2021.
This development marks a significant investment in Southern River's growing retail and dining landscape, offering new convenience and dining options for the local community.
