Stage two of the multi-million-dollar redevelopment of Papamoa Plaza is set to start at the end of next month with up to 100 local tradies expected to be working around the clock on the project.
Centre manager David Hill said work on the new entranceway, some of the facades andseveral shop fitouts were complete while space for another 20 stores and foodcourt would begin as the project moved forward.
It's a long-awaited makeover not just for Papamoa Plaza, but for Papamoa ... 22,000 people live here it's the largest suburb of Tauranga and quite possibly the most under-serviced.
The Warehouse extension was also under way "as they are bursting at the seams".
"Its storage area out the back is being expanded which will make a significant difference to their store layout."
A number of stores had upgraded including NZ Post, Robert Harris, Paper Plus and My Pharmacy while Cutz 4 U had a brand new shop, United Video and the $1, $2, $3 Mart had moved in and Hollywood Nails was getting a store fitted out.
Expressions of interest from future retailers had exceeded space and given the owners the confidence to bring forward the renovations, Mr Hill said.
"It's been fantastic we have been to the market several times in terms of the customers and what they want.
"There are some overwhelming trends for fashion and giftware and traditional shopping centre stuff."
"We have lined up the top in each category and have got lots of synchronising of nodding heads."
It was in the "delightful situation of being a bit picky and choosy".
Feedback from customers had been positive, he said.
"It's a long-awaited makeover not just for Papamoa Plaza, but for Papamoa ... 22,000 people live here it's the largest suburb of Tauranga and quite possibly the most under-serviced."
The third stage would be to build space for a number of 400 to 500 sq m larger format stores on the grass area beside the mall likely to take off in 2017, he said.
Councillor Steve Morris said the revamp of the plaza would provide jobs.
The Papamoa Plaza begins stage two of its $20 million dollar redevelopment next month. IMAGE/SUPPLIED
