The Morris Hedstrom site in Labasa, which has remained unused and served as a car park for several years, is set for a major redevelopment. The Labasa Town Council has approved plans for a new shopping mall, marking a significant shift in the region’s commercial environment.
The building, which once thrived as a retail center, was destroyed by a fire 15 years ago and has since been left vacant, with only remnants of the former structure visible. Local residents and business owners have long awaited a decision regarding the future of this prominent location.
Samu Ligairi, the special administrator for the Labasa Town Council, confirmed that the plans for the mall have received approval. He stated, “This is why you’ve seen the area now being cordoned off.”
The multimillion-dollar project is being undertaken by Carpenters, the parent company of Morris Hedstrom. Ligairi expressed enthusiasm for the development, noting its potential to create numerous job opportunities and enhance the local economy.
He added that construction is expected to commence shortly, with preliminary work already in progress.