“Although I appreciate the positive approach council is taking, it has been over it a thousand times under the Development Control Plan. While it’s a positive move, the CBD really needs a department store like Big W,” Mr Baxter said.

“Discussions have not come to fruition and council has failed to secure the situation with Big W. Now it looks as though they are heading to the Stockland shopping centre,” he said.

Members of the community have been invited to offer comments and make suggestions for the site, following the establishment of a precinct concept and Have Your Say website.

Mr Baxter, who believed the site lent itself to a mixed shopping space, did not think much could be done now to resuscitate the opportunity.

“Developers have approached council a number of times but it has not taken up the opportunity. What will come of this? I don’t know.”

Deputy Mayor John Wells said he was aware of comments made by local business people and council was working on the best advice from local government.

“The Division of Local Government requires council to go through this process and allow the community to offer their opinion. 

“I am pleased that some are having a critical say because the division will not take a favourable view of a process that is not open and transparent,” Cr Wells said.

“There are certain processes which are required from government and council is following them as meticulously as possible”, he said.