Warkworth supermarket foundations defy weather

Groundwork for the new Countdown Supermarket, in Neville Street Warkworth, is nearing completion with construction on the new store expected to start soon.

Rainfall over the Christmas/New Year made earthworks challenging, according to a Progressive Enterprises spokesperson.

“There are about 20 workers on site at present and this will increase over time,” he said.

“Foundation work involved sinking 110 boarded piles down to a depth of 12m. Nothing exceptional was uncovered while we were digging around, just plenty of water with the unexpected amount of rainfall over Christmas.”

The basement level is currently being prepared, with the ground floor likely to go up in May. The roof is due to be completed in July and fit-out will take between 12 to 16 weeks.

“There’s been plenty of interest in the five specialty shops in the complex and we’re just working things through with some preferred tenants at present.

“We will start recruiting for team members about six to eight weeks before we open, with the appointment of the store manager prior to this occurring.”