Sixty-two hundred parking spaces. That’s a lot of cars. Highpoint Shopping Centre. Think about it. A sprawling retail kingdom in Melbourne’s Maribyrnong. It’s one of the nation’s largest shopping centres.
Highpoint Shopping Centre wasn’t always a shopping mecca. It began life as a quarry. A 50-acre scar on the land. Then came World War II. An anti-aircraft battery stood guard on this very hill. It overlooked the Maribyrnong River and Melbourne’s CBD. This strategic location provided protection. Protection for nearby military bases and ammunition works.
In 1975 Highpoint West opened. It wasn’t its current name. The original name was Westland. It reflected the naming pattern of other shopping centres. The centre was soon renamed Highpoint City then simply Highpoint. It’s a fitting name. The centre sits atop a hill.
The $300 million Northwest Precinct development transformed Highpoint. The Buchan Group architects were involved. They were responsible for every stage of Highpoint’s development. The redevelopment brought 100 new specialty stores. A new David Jones department store also opened.
Highpoint isn’t just about shopping. The innovative design is noteworthy. It challenges traditional retail designs. Strong connections with the surrounding environment were created. Natural materials such as timber and blue stone were used. Naturally ventilated spaces respond to the weather. The most striking feature is the transparent roof. It allows natural light to flood the mall.
The redevelopment was completed in 2013. It set a benchmark for retail and sustainable design. This wasn’t just about selling goods. It was about creating a unique experience. An experience that blends shopping with environmental consciousness. Highpoint Shopping Centre. A place where people shop and play.
The GPT Group is the owner. They purchased Highpoint in stages. They initially acquired a 50% stake in 2006. Then they acquired the remaining 50% in 2017. The Highpoint complex was valued at $2.3 billion in 2016.
A 30-year plan called Highpoint Urban Village is underway. It’s not just about expansion. It’s about creating an entire urban village. A vibrant mix of residential and commercial spaces. It will include a new library and community hub. There will be new green spaces and around 3000 new dwellings. Highpoint Shopping Centre’s story continues to unfold. A testament to its ever-evolving presence in Melbourne’s western suburbs.