The ACT Government has called for expressions of interest for the construction of a third supermarket in Dickson.
After announcing late last year that it would allow Aldi to build a second complex next to the existing Woolworths store, the Government has now opened the bidding process for another full-line operator to build a third store in the area.
Coles is expected to apply for the site, as are other major suppliers such as Supabarn and IGA.
The two supermarkets will be built on the same site - the carpark on the corner of Antill Street and Badham Street - after a community survey revealed it would prefer to build the two together.
The Government had previously suggested the third supermarket could be built on the car park the library and Baptist Memorial Church, but this option received less support in the survey.
ACT Planning Minister Andrew Barr said the Government would implement temporary parking measures during construction but warned delays could not be avoided entirely.
"We will work with the developer to put in place temporary car parking measures and we will look at the timing of the construction so as not to impact on peak season and peak use of Dickson pool, for example," he said.
"... the construction can be managed in a way to minimise impact but there will be disruption, undoubtedly.
"At the completion of the project, though, there will be ample car parking as more underground car parking will be constructed."
Mr Barr said a decision on the successful bid would be announced this year and construction would begin as soon as possible.
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