The former Greenparkes Garden Centre site is undergoing significant transformation with the construction of a new motel and childcare centre. Located at the intersection of Forbes Road and Medlyn Street, the site has been vacant for several years. Demolition work commenced in October 2023 and included the dismantling of the Cedar Cafe and other structures. By the end of November, the site was nearly cleared, paving the way for new developments.
The new motel will feature a single-story building with 22 rooms, occupying the western portion of the site. It will also include amenities such as a private laundry, office and reception area, a free-standing pylon sign, on-site manager facilities, and 26 car parking spaces. The estimated cost for the motel development is $2,020,700. The childcare centre will be situated at the eastern end of the property, closest to Lawson Street, and is expected to have around 20 car parking spaces.
Demolition activities, which included the removal of the old nursery, metal awnings, and internal brick fencing, were approved by the Parkes Shire Council in 2023. The council received no public objections during the exhibition period for the development application, which was officially approved during the council’s meeting on November 18, 2023.
During this meeting, Deputy Mayor Marg Applebee expressed enthusiasm about the project, noting the long-standing vacancy of the site. She inquired about the construction timeline, highlighting the significance of the developments. “It’s great to see something happening there finally. It’s a fantastic space,” Cr Applebee stated.
Annalise Teale, Director of Planning and Community Services, provided an update on the progress. She confirmed that the site is owned by a single developer who is eager to move forward. A construction certificate for the childcare centre has already been submitted, and the developer is expected to lodge the construction certificate for the motel soon. This indicates a strong intention to commence building shortly.
The redevelopment of the Greenparkes site reflects a growing trend in urban revitalization. With the addition of the motel and childcare centre, the area is set to provide essential services to the community, addressing both accommodation needs and childcare options. As construction progresses, local residents will be keen to see how these developments enhance the neighborhood.
