Bendigo's population boom demands urgent action: Are 5 new supermarkets enough?
The clock is ticking for Bendigo as its population soars, and the city is bracing for a massive influx of residents by 2050. Demographic expert Bernard Salt has issued a stark warning: at least five major supermarkets are needed to cater to the growing population, or the city risks facing empty shelves and hungry residents.
But here's where it gets controversial: is building more supermarkets the only solution?
The Bendigo Advertiser's analysis reveals that the suburb of Huntly, expected to gain 15,000 new residents, desperately needs a supermarket. However, locals also yearn for a pharmacy and increased police presence, citing rising theft and longer police response times.
The city's growth is fueled by various factors. Bendigo's council is planning for the future, with a focus on easing the rental market strain. Demographer Bernard Salt attributes the population surge to an 'industry shift', with healthcare and hospitality thriving, while mining and construction workers are drawn to larger projects elsewhere.
Despite the challenges, Salt commends Bendigo's proactive approach, advocating for long-term strategies like Bendigo 2050 to be adopted by regional communities nationwide.
As the city prepares for its 2050 vision, the question remains: will five new supermarkets be sufficient to meet the needs of a rapidly growing Bendigo?
