Dapto Mall has announced the beginning of a major refurbishment to keep pace with the demand and expectations of a rapidly growing population in the West Dapto area.
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Work started this week on a new-look food court, to be followed by the development of a new children's playground on the upper level of the shopping centre.
The food court revamp will take shape over the coming weeks and is scheduled to finish by May.
Following customer research, the concept is designed to bring "the outdoors within".
Shoppers said they would like to see a reinvigorated food court area with comfortable, relaxed and intimate seating.
The colour and décor is designed to reflect nature with green, earthy and natural tones.
Dapto Mall marketing manager Julia Davidson said shoppers could expect new eateries - like the recently arrived Hong Kong Asian - and fresh fit-outs on many of the existing food outlets.
Mrs Davidson said the new furniture, layout and seating would offer a modern, light and open dining atmosphere, close to 800 free car parking spaces to make it convenient and easy for everyone.
Further announcements are expected when the food court and playground are completed mid-year.
Dapto Mall centre manager Glenn Cochrane said the shopping centre wanted to do the best for its "strong, loyal customer base" that has built up steadily since the redevelopment of the centre with the addition of the upper level 12 years ago.
"We are excited to be able to create a space for them that is contemporary and modern, whilst also relaxed and easy going," Mr Cochrane said.
"With an expanding demographic in Dapto and surrounding areas, this refurbishment will appeal to both existing and new customers and is one way we can show that we are committed to meeting their everyday needs."
Mr Cochrane said when the initial $3.5 million refurbishment is completed mid-year the reinvigorated upper level of Dapto Mall will deliver a comfortable and contemporary space for customers to relax with friends and family, enjoying something to eat or drink, or grabbing a coffee whilst their children spend time on the new playground.
"This will be a fresh change for Dapto Mall, and we hope to present customers with a place they will enjoy as much as their own home.
"Our aim is to be the hub of the community and we know to do that we need to give our customers - present and future - what they want in a pleasant, modern environment."
What can shoppers expect in coming weeks.
- Stage 1 - The south-east section of the food court will be refurbished from March 18 to May 9.
- Stage 2 - Work in the west of the food court runs from May 10 to the end of June.
- Work will take place outside of centre opening hours. Retailers on the upper level will remain open as usual.
