Centre Expansion
Wellington Square is proposing to more than double in size to 17,000m²+, set to become one of the most significant retail developments in Mitchell Shire in decades. This landmark expansion would transform the town centre into a relaxing, welcoming place to connect, shop, dine and unwind, and a place locals can genuinely feel proud of.
Wallan is growing fast, and the community deserves a centre that keeps pace. We’ve been part of everyday life here for more than 22 years, and this next chapter is about creating somewhere comfortable, safe and enjoyable for every generation.
A place where Mitchell Shire comes together
For more than 22 years, Wellington Square has been woven into the rhythm of everyday life in Wallan, the place you pop in for the essentials and end up chatting to someone you know. The expansion builds on that, creating a true civic and social hub where people can linger longer, run into familiar faces and enjoy experiences worth sticking around for.
What we’re proposing
The expanded precinct would bring together:
- New restaurants and dining, indoors and out
- A broader retail mix, with everyday essentials
- Contemporary office space to support local jobs
- Community activity space for connection and events
- Entertainment and nightlife to bring energy into the town centre after dark
- A brand-new library almost four times the size of the current one, a major community anchor for learning, gathering and services
The design takes its cues from where we are, with an elevated country feel that’s warm, modern and proudly local. It’s set to raise the bar for comfort, safety and everyday ease for the whole community, and we’re aiming for a Green Star sustainability rating.
External View & Office Building
Proposed external view featuring the office building and new retail precinct.
Indoor Dining & Play Area
Proposed indoor dining area with family-friendly play space.
Beer Garden & Outdoor Dining
Proposed beer garden with outdoor dining and greenery.
External Entry
Proposed internal atrium with stairs, greenery and new retail.
Artist's impression only. Subject to approval.
Expansion at a Glance
Direct Jobs Created
More Retailers
More Car Spaces incl. Multi-Level
A new larger Library
Place Vision
Wallan's True Centre.
At a time of soulless big-box destinations and sprawling suburban supermarkets, when people are looking for local excitement and authentic experiences, Wellington Square will stay true to its country roots while offering a distinctly modern experience.
Uniquely blending rural charm with fresh inspiration, Wellington Square will be a place of local pride for Wallan. Here, the essential ingredients of contemporary living, working and playing are easily found. Inspiring spaces, and stories behind every counter, foster a strong sense of community and connection.
It will be a place where old friends meet, and new friendships start. Day and night, Wellington Square will celebrate and showcase the best of local life for all to enjoy.
Welcome to our true centre — the contemporary country heart of Wallan.
Expansion Timeline
From planning approval to opening day — here's how the expansion unfolds.
Planning Scheme Amendment Request Lodged
Crystal Group submitted a Planning Scheme Amendment request to Mitchell Shire Council seeking to rezone land to enable the proposed expansion of Wellington Square.
The amendment seeks to facilitate a larger, mixed-use town centre precinct incorporating retail, dining, commercial offices, entertainment uses and an expanded library, subject to further assessment and approval through the statutory planning process.
Council Assessment and Agency Review
Council simultaneously refers the application to relevant agencies - VicRoads, water authority, EPA, and utility providers-who provide preliminary feedback on feasibility and infrastructure constraints. This assessment determines whether the application is accepted for formal processing or requires additional information before proceeding.
Days since lodgement
with Mitchell Shire Council
Lodged 18 December 2024 — and counting.
Community ConsultationJune / July 2027
Following Council endorsement for consultation, the Wallan Structure Plan would be publicly exhibited for community and stakeholder feedback. This consultation period typically runs for approximately 3–4 weeks and provides an opportunity for submissions to be made.
Review of Submissions and Council ConsiderationOct / Nov / Dec 2027
Council will consider all submissions received during exhibition.
Following this process, Council will determine whether to adopt the amendment (with or without changes) and forward it to the Minister for Planning for final consideration.
Minister for Planning Review and DecisionDec 2027 – Mar 2028
The Minister for Planning will consider the amendment documentation and submissions before deciding whether to approve the amendment. This stage ensures the proposal is consistent with state planning policy and statutory requirements.
Timeframes for approval can vary depending on complexity and any further information requests.
Detailed Design & Building Permits
Once rezoning is approved, we prepare detailed plans for construction — including building design, engineering, traffic management, parking layout and safety requirements. We then apply for building permits from the council. This stage takes around 6 months.
Construction & Opening
Construction of the expanded Wellington Square gets underway. Stage 1 will take approximately 18 months to 2 years to complete.
Dates are indicative and subject to change pending planning authority decisions.
What's planned for the expansion
A glimpse of what's coming to Wallan when the expansion is complete.
Restaurants
Sit-down dining options not currently available in Wallan — bringing a genuine restaurant precinct to the heart of the town for the first time.
Retail
A broader mix of everyday essentials alongside something special — giving locals more choice, closer to home.
Office Building
Contemporary office space to support local jobs, activity and services in the heart of Wallan.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Entertainment and nightlife to bring energy into the town centre — creating a destination that stays alive after 5pm.
Community Space
Community activity space for connection and events — a place for Mitchell Shire to come together.
A New Larger Library
A brand-new library almost four times the size of the existing one — a major community anchor for learning, gathering and services.
*Tenant mix is subject to securing retailers and final planning approvals. All inclusions are indicative and may change.
We’re thinking ahead about what businesses and services will thrive at Wellington Square in the years to come. If you’d like to be considered as our expansion plans progress, you can register your interest below.
Interested in becoming part of Wellington Square’s next chapter?
We’re welcoming registrations of interest from:
- •Allied health and medical
- •Wellness and personal services
- •Office-based services (legal, accounting, finance, property, consulting)
- •Community and family services
- •Specialty retailers and convenience operators