The town of Northam east of Perth is about to undergo a major transformation thanks to a multi-million dollar shopping centre and solar energy investment by Vikas Rambal, Perdaman’s chairman.
Perdaman is making the investment to transform the Northam Boulevard Shopping Centre into a modern shopping and community centre with work getting underway soon.
Today, Minister for Regional Development, Alannah MacTiernan will officially launch the project and unveil the already completed solar powered carpark, which is a first for the state.
Perdaman’s chairman, Vikas Rambal said it was an exciting day for Northam and also paved the way for future use of solar powered carparks around the state.
“This is a very exciting time for Northam as this re-development breathes new life into a well-known and iconic part of the community,” said Mr Rambal.
“We’re delighted to have the support of Minister MacTiernan which demonstrates the importance the State Government is placing on regional development,” he said.
“It will no doubt provide opportunities for new jobs and be a huge boost to the local economy.”
“Our aim is for the new Northam Boulevard to become the new heart of the town, also giving tourists a place to visit and relax.”
The development includes the merging of Northam Boulevard and Northam Arcade to form a shopping and community hub which includes a new medical centre, revitalised shopping mall and improved retail spaces.
Part of the re-development includes WA’s largest solar power installation. The solar car park involves 900 solar panels being installed on the bitumen carpark.
Developed by Perdaman Advanced Energy, part of Perdaman, Mr Rambal described the solar car park as the “jewel in the crown” of the redevelopment.
“The installation will generate over one million kilowatt hours a year which equates to 40% of the shopping centre’s annual electricity requirements.”
“The new solar car park provides much needed shade for shoppers but also turns the space into a revenue generating piece of infrastructure.”
“It is the first of its kind in Australia and showcases a unique approach to the future of energy here and globally.”
“We have created the largest solar installation in the state and brought the Northam Boulevard Shopping Centre into the solar age.”
“It’s all part of our commitment to transform our shopping centres in regional areas throughout the state.”
“We believe shopping centres like Northam Boulevard can become so much more for local communities.”
“With the introduction of medical centres, childcare facilities and many other community facilities, shopping centres will no longer be for one specific purpose but have many benefits.”
Perdaman acquired the Northam Boulevard shopping centre in 2014 for $14 million with the aim of creating a precinct for the community at the heart of the town.
In the past 2 years, they acquired next door properties and Shire land to create a community friendly hub for the future generations in Northam and surrounding areas.
Perdaman also owns Port Coogee Village Shopping Centre in North Coogee with plans to target other regional centres across the state.
“Regional development and solar energy are our main focus at the moment,” said Mr Rambal.
“There’s never been a better time to invest in solar energy and we are committed to expanding our presence in regional areas.”
“Today we are launching our $15 million re-development of a regional icon and we will continue to invest in regional development throughout this state.”
About Perdaman
Perdaman is a WA based multi-national diversified industrial company operating successful businesses in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, fertilisers and commercial property. Founding Chairman Vikas Rambal and his fellow Directors all have extensive major project experience, and played central roles in the development and construction of the A$700 million Liquid Ammonia Fertiliser plant located on the Burrup Peninsula in the North West of Australia. Diversifying into clean energy aligns with the Group’s mission of “Creating a better tomorrow.”
