Shopping centre ushers in new era

There is a new shopping centre opening in Albany today.

Well, almost new.

Brooks Garden Shopping Centre will be rebranded Chester Pass Mall, with the name bearing historical links to the region.

The centre, recently purchased by M/Group, ran a competition to name the centre with more than 200 entries received.

M/Group’s James Collis said a short-list of names was put to tenants, with Chester Pass Mall the preferred option.

“We received so many great name options, but Chester Pass Mall stood out not merely for its historic significance to the region, but also its relevance to the shopping centre’s location,” he said.

Chester Pass Road was named after George Chester, who was appointed as a policeman in 1861 to establish a station in Magitup in the Pallinup-Jerramungup district.

The road is said to follow a trail Chester made in taking the most direct line between Magitup and Albany.

Centre manager Nial Twigger said the centre would undergo upgrades in coming months, with new shops also to open.

“The recent initiatives might be small steps, but I think the locals are starting to see that M/Group means what it says in creating a great new community space. And this is just the beginning of things to come,” he said.

“The new name is symbolic of a new era where the community can enjoy great parking, great shopping and a great atmosphere. It is exciting times for the centre and we hope the community will embrace the changes taking place to create a great environment.” Locals Peter Munday, Dwayne Webb, Robyn Murray and Jennifer MacDonald will each receive $200 for their input during the naming competition.