Plans have been put to council that will see Westland Shopping Centre modernised to include 20 additional specialty shops, a Kmart discount department store and extended car parking.

The directors of Business Credits and owners of the Westland Shopping Centre announced the major expansion and upgrade to the centre on Friday.

Business Credits have owned Westland Shopping Centre since 1990 and have already made extensions to the building over the past 18 years.

Negotiations will now be made with Coles Group, which will allow Business Credits to carry out the major expansion and upgrade of the centre.

The plans that have been lodged include:

? An expansion by some 1200sq.m and complete refit of the existing Target Discount Department Store

? A new 3700 sq.m Coles Supermarket

? A new 4500 sq.m Kmart

? An additional 2000 sq.m of specialty retail

? Major upgrade and modernisation of the existing centre.

The directors of Business Credits believe this shopping centre would have the ability to pull shoppers from all over the upper north and west coast of South Australia.

"This is exciting news for Whyalla and the region," Business Credits director Harry Perks said.

"It will create employment for approximately 300 people on a full time basis."

Trevor Robertson from Business Credits also believes that people will travel to Whyalla to shop at the upgraded shopping centre.

"It will have lowered ceilings and 20 specialist shops will be added," Mr Robertson said.

The extension and upgrade of the centre will cost about $35 million.

The upgraded fitouts of the existing shops is estimated to cost a further $20-25 million.

"I think it is great to see Westlands being upgraded," Whyalla Council Chief Executive Officer Phil Cameron said.

"This shows a lot of confidence (in Whyalla and the shopping centre)," Mr Cameron added.

"I have seen the plans and it looks fantastic and will be great for the city.

"Westlands was looking a bit tired," Mr Cameron said.

"The plans of the regional development to Westlands is a boost to the retail shopping sector of the city.

"It will value add to the already established shopping facilities.

"The building is currently 40 years old and was looking run down in some areas, however the current plans and proposals will provide a very up market and improved facilities," Whyalla mayor Jim Pollock said.

The council is excited for the new development and is pleased with the new found confidence it shows in the growth of our city.