“At the time of purchase, the intention was to develop a new supermarket,” a Woolworths spokeswoman said.
“Our priorities have changed and the site is now surplus to our requirements, so we have put it on the market for sale.
“The property is zoned for residential development, and with close proximity to both Hastings and Havelock North, and new roading and infrastructure in place, it presents an attractive residential development opportunity.
The 3ha site on the edge of Hastings up for sale. Photo / Bayleys
“Woolworths has an active development plan in Hawke’s Bay, and we have recently opened a new Woolworths supermarket in Flaxmere, as well as announced a planned store in Greenmeadows, Napier.”
Woolworths has an existing supermarket in central Hastings.
Property records show General Distributors Ltd (Woolworths) also owns land at 246 and 258 Havelock Rd, which are part of the sale.
The three titles are next to Cranford Hospice’s planned new home at 238 Havelock Rd, and the land backs on to Parkvale School.
The wider area was rezoned in 2017 from plains productive to general residential land.
New public roading has since been constructed to prepare for residential growth, and a cul-de-sac runs through part of the site.
Most of the land is grass-covered and there are a handful of existing buildings facing Havelock Rd.
One building is tenanted by childcare centre Lulu and Max.
Bayleys Hawke’s Bay salesman Matt Webb said the properties had great potential.
“This is a compelling opportunity for developers to deliver a housing project of significant note in one of Hawke’s Bay’s most desirable growth markets.”
Bayleys salesman Tony Knaggs said it was well positioned on an arterial road linking Hastings and Havelock North.
“Hastings’ CBD and the Havelock North village are a short drive away, making these sites convenient for business, commuting, and amenities.”
The property is being sold by tender, closing Thursday, September 3 (unless sold prior).