THE construction work in the carpark of Kmart and Coles in Ballina is finished – in time for Christmas shopping.

The work in the installation of shade sails in the carpark, and the construction of what will be the new Kmart Tyre and Auto building, is part of a $3m refurbishment of the 27-year-old centre.

Stage 1 also includes the construction of new public toilets at the northern end of Kmart, and a cafe which is sited between Kmart and Coles, both of which are expected to be open by Christmas.

Manager of Kmart Ballina, David Pitty, said the refurbishments are all aimed at making both stores more customer-friendly.

The shade sails will provide protection from the sun for customers’ cars during the warm months, and also the rain.
Mr Pitty said the sails are cyclone-rated.

The new Kmart Tyre and Auto building will have six berths, and is expected to be open for business early next year.

Mr Pitty said construction will stop completely over the busy Christmas and January periods, and Stage 2 will begin sometime after.

In that stage, the existing Liquorland building will be demolished and work will start on a new 1st Choice Liquor Store, which will extend to the rear of the current building and will be about five times the floor space.

The in-store refurbishments on Kmart and Coles – Stage 3 – are expected to start in May next year.