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Spudshed Eyes High Wycombe Expansion

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/05/spudshed-eyes-high-wycombe-expansion.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 20:01 GMT by Perth Now
      Locales: Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

High Wycombe, Western Australia - February 6th, 2026 - Potato magnate Tony Galati's family business is setting its sights on further expansion with a proposed neighbourhood shopping centre in High Wycombe, sparking both excitement and concern amongst local residents. The development, slated for a 1.7-hectare block on Evans Road, aims to become a community hub anchored by a substantial 247-square-metre Spudshed supermarket.

The plans, currently before the Joint Development Assessment Panel (JDAP), are being driven by High Wycombe Central Pty Ltd, a company that lists Damian Galati - Tony Galati's son - as a director. This underlines the continued family involvement in the rapidly growing Spudshed empire, which has seen a surge in new store openings across Western Australia in recent years.

The proposed shopping centre isn't solely focused on groceries. The design incorporates a diverse mix of retail spaces, including a cafe, a gym, and a variety of specialty stores, intending to cater to the broader needs of the High Wycombe community. Ample parking is also a key component of the design, with plans for 135 vehicle bays. Spudshed, however, is positioned as the flagship 'destination store', promising a continued focus on fresh, high-quality produce and its renowned affordable pricing. This strategy aligns with Spudshed's established brand identity and its consistent appeal to price-conscious shoppers.

However, the proposed development hasn't been met with universal enthusiasm. A primary concern voiced by residents centers around potential increases in traffic congestion and parking difficulties in the surrounding area. The Evans Road location, near the busy intersection of Illawong Way, is already subject to peak-hour traffic, and residents fear the shopping centre will exacerbate existing problems. They've raised questions about the adequacy of the proposed parking capacity and the potential for overflow parking onto residential streets. Community groups have called for a comprehensive traffic impact assessment and mitigation strategies to address these concerns before the project moves forward.

The City of Swan's planning officers have acknowledged these concerns and have recommended approval of the plans, subject to conditions. Critically, these conditions include the implementation of a robust traffic management plan, designed to minimise disruption and ensure smooth traffic flow, and a potential increase in parking capacity to accommodate anticipated demand. The officers believe the development offers significant benefits to the community, including increased retail options and local employment opportunities, but only if traffic and parking issues are adequately addressed.

The JDAP meeting today, February 6th, will be the crucial deciding factor. Panel members will carefully review the plans, the City of Swan's recommendations, and the feedback from residents before making a final determination. The JDAP's decision will likely set a precedent for future development in the High Wycombe area and highlight the importance of balancing economic growth with the needs of the local community.

Tony Galati's Spudshed has become a Western Australian institution, known for its direct relationships with farmers and its commitment to providing fresh produce at competitive prices. The company's growth trajectory has been remarkable, expanding from a single store to a network of supermarkets and produce markets across the state. This latest venture into High Wycombe represents a strategic move to further expand its reach and consolidate its position as a leading player in the Western Australian retail landscape.

The success of this development will hinge on several factors, including effective traffic management, adequate parking, and a commitment to genuine community engagement. The developer's willingness to address resident concerns and incorporate their feedback will be vital in fostering a positive relationship with the local community. If approved, the High Wycombe shopping centre could become a vibrant hub for local businesses and residents, but only with careful planning and ongoing collaboration.