Residents of the Mount Annan community are on-the-fence about recent upgrades to their local Market Place following the construction of a new “Guzman y Gomez” (GYG) in the centre’s carpark.
Several weeks ago, locals started noticing coloured indicators on the ground for roadwork in the area, however there was no public announcement that the Market Place was undergoing any improvements.
Jefwell Pty Ltd and owner of the Market Place, Joseph Cincotta said that there were posts made online and on the noticeboard inside of the centre about the recent changes.
“We have tried to best accommodate all of our shoppers,” said Mr Cincotta.
“The Market Place ranges from healthcare to self-care to sweet treats.
“It is difficult to impress such a large population of people with different tastes.”
As per their online website, Mount Annan Market Place claims to have an easily accessible, one-level carpark that hosts four-hundred and forty available spots.
With the introduction of the new GYG, a quarter of the carpark has been removed and re-laned to better suit the new flow of traffic in and out of the centre, heavily reducing the amount of readily available parking spots.
Mr Cincotta said that it might take some time to evaluate the parking needs of the local community.
“We are looking at maximising the parking experience,” said Mr Cincotta.
In recent years, locals have had concerns about new development in the area, with neighbouring townhouses put on hold for half a decade after concerns that residents would attempt to use the centre parking for personal use.
Resident and weekly shopper at Mount Annan Market Place, Natalie Wilson, said that whilst she has a strong disdain for the external situation, there isn’t much that takes away from the coziness of the centre.
“It’s a familiar space where I’ve raised my kids,” Ms Wilson said.
Mount Annan Market Place is home to over 50 businesses, small and large, including a pharmacy, doctors surgery, dentist and gym.
“I’ve spent more time here than at my own home,” Ms Wilson said.
“Maybe more money too!”
However, other residents feel less sentimental.
Resident Jimmy Macri revisited the Market Place on opening night of GYG for a “Five Dollar Burrito”.
“I hate that carpark,” Mr Macri said.
“I drive a four-wheel-drive and the new carpark is concrete city.”
He reported that the new linework is imperfect, there are unnecessary bollards and islands and wasted space for much needed parking space.
Rumours are circling on the communities Facebook groups that the parking lot for Mount Annan Market Place is soon to be ticketed and paid for after three hours of parking in the centre to better combat the personal usage of parking spaces by neighbouring townhouses.
There is yet to be any update on the Market Place’s official website about the changes to the centre carpark.