By Violet Li
As Pakenham is expected to have a Costco in the coming years, a former Casey councillor says he’s disappointed that Cranbourne isn’t getting one first despite efforts to pursue the retail giant two decades ago.
A planning permit to use and develop a new Costco store in Pakenham was lodged last week and was under Cardinia Shire Council’s assessment.
Former Casey councillor Steve Beardon said Cranbourne needs a Costco and it is the ideal place for a Costco.
He recalled his self-funded trip to the United States in 2008 to encourage the retail giant to set up a shop in Cranbourne.
He also met up with Costco’s then-country manager Patrick Noonan to discuss the possibility.
From his memory, Mr Noonan highlighted that in ten years, Cranbourne would be expected to be ideal for a Costco after the duplication of Thompsons Road and industrial zoning.
“Unfortunately, that’s where it’s stayed since. I’m disappointed that nothing’s happened,” Mr Beardon said.
“Obviously, Cardinia has seen the opportunity.”
Star News reported back in 2009 that Mr Beardon was frustrated by many then-councillors’ lack of action in pursuing a Costco for Casey.
Mr Beardon said a Costco in Cranbourne would benefit the local economy greatly.
“Costco actually attracts a lot of other businesses in this vicinity. The idea was to help boost retail and boost employment and put Cranbourne on the map,” he said.
“The economic benefits are going to go to Pakenham, not to Cranbourne.
“That’s the disappointing part. But Cranbourne still needs to be put on the map.
“It still needs employment opportunities.”
Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce Ian Wood welcomed the idea of a Costco in Cranbourne.
He said if that happened, that would be the best thing Cranbourne had had in years.
“It’s going to be great news for economic development in Cranbourne to have a Costco coming,” he said.
“It’s going to create jobs. People will come into the suburbs.
“Costco is quite cheap. It’s going to be buying in bulk, so the people of Cranbourne will benefit.”
He added that if that happened, people in Casey wouldn’t need to drive far to Moorabbin or Ringwood to shop.
Costco was contacted on whether a Cranbourne location was on the table, but Star News was told the company doesn’t confirm any possible future location, and once any information of a location is confirmed, it will be shared on its website.
