GERMAN retail giant Kaufland has pulled out of its plans to build a $24 million superstore in Munno Para.
Playford Council had signed a contract with Kaufland to sell a parcel of vacant land, on the corner of Curtis and Main North Road for $8.2 million.
In May, council approved Kaufland to submit an independent development plan amendment for the land to the State Government to have it re-zoned from commercial to suburban neighbourhood
land to allow the development to go ahead.
More jobs “in an area of higher than average unemployment”, the potential to transition away from a manufacturer-based economy, more consumer choice and opportunities for investment attraction were all touted by Kaufland as benefits of the potential ‘super store’ in a report to the Playford Council Strategic Planning Committee in May.
A council spokesperson confirmed Kaufland had exited its contract with Playford.
“It would be irresponsible of council to discuss its commercial arrangements with potential investors in our community, this is standard business practice across all industries and levels of government,” the spokesperson said.
“What we can say is that this council is committed to attracting investment to the City of Playford by utilising surplus land parcels and obtaining the best market value available at the time.
“Building our community and creating jobs and opportunities for our growing population are of paramount importance to council staff and elected members.”
The land was also attacked by arsonists on May 24, when the Munno Para Bowling Club building, which formerly occupied the site, was burnt down.
At the time of the fire Playford mayor Glenn Docherty said council had begun discussions with Kaufland about the building’s demolition, but no date had been set.
It was demolished shortly after the blaze for safety reasons.