THE Kingston Centre could have a new supermarket and more car parking under planning changes to fend off competition from other centres such as Manuka and Fyshwick, say the ACT Government. 

“Kingston was the one of the first commercial centres in Canberra but over time, competition from other centres such as Manuka and Fyshwick has resulted in a gradual loss of economic vitality,” says Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development, Simon Corbell.

“Draft Variation 314 (DV314) to the Territory Plan draws on findings from the Kingston Centre master plan and includes controls on development of the car park on Eyre Street and increases to some building heights in the centre.

“The Eyre Street car park site will permit commercial mixed-use development of up to six storeys with a requirement to retain the existing level of parking. To revitalise and encourage pedestrian activity in Highgate Lane, future development in the core shopping area will have to provide pedestrian connections through certain blocks.”

Mr Corbell says the ACT Government is currently preparing the car park for sale and arrangements will be made to ensure loss of parking during construction “is kept to a minimum.”

“These planning changes will provide a much needed economic stimulus through the new supermarket and new development opportunities, but the changes come with a caveat to retain parking and that the character of the centre is retained,” Mr Corbell said.

Written comments on DV314 are invited until Monday, August 12. For information on how to comment, visit www.act.gov.au/draftvariations.