Ever wondered about the only place in Australia with “Airport” in its name but no airport? That’s Airport West. And right here before you stands Westfield Airport West Shopping Centre.
Nestled in the heart of Airport West this shopping centre isn’t just a place to shop. It’s a living piece of local history. Opened in 1976 Westfield Airport West has seen many changes. It expanded in 1982 and again in 1999. Major renovations and refurbishments happened in 1986 1989 1997 1998 and 2010. Today it boasts a massive 52266 square meters of retail space. Anchored by familiar names like Coles Woolworths Target Kmart and Aldi it’s a community hub. A Village Cinemas complex adds to the entertainment options.
Think about the people who have walked these aisles over the years. Families doing their weekly shop teenagers meeting friends after school couples on a date. Each shopper carries their own story weaving into the rich tapestry of this place. The centre sits on 17.6 hectares of land. It boasts over 2640 car bays. This shows just how much it caters to the community.
Beyond the shopping Westfield Airport West is strategically located. Its proximity to major freeways like the Tullamarine Freeway and Western Ring Road makes it easily accessible. It’s also near Essendon Airport Melbourne’s first general airport. This airport now focuses on light planes charter flights and freight. The name Airport West though quite ironic highlights the suburb’s historical connection to aviation.
The area itself has a unique history. Before becoming a bustling suburb it was farmland. Two farms Spring Park and Niddrie dominated the landscape. Aviation-related businesses along Matthews Avenue petitioned for a name change in the late 1950s. They felt Airport West better reflected their location. This change helped boost their businesses.
So next time you visit Westfield Airport West remember it’s more than just a shopping centre. It’s a microcosm of the community’s history and a testament to its ongoing evolution. It’s a place where stories unfold daily each shopper adding another thread to the rich fabric of Airport West. Enjoy your shopping experience.