Media Statement
3 June 2020
Braddon businesses have applauded today’s announcement by the ACT Government’s to upgrade the precinct – but have called for consultation to avoid unintended negative consequences.
Braddon’s United Retailers & Traders (BURT) say the fast-tracking of $13 million of works in Braddon and Dickson should help recovery after the smoky summer and coronavirus shutdowns as long as priority is given to projects that are known to be needed by both businesses and customers.
BURT spokesperson Kel Watt said the main concerns identified over the last couple of years were:
- Convenient car parking for clients and customers
- Safe and secure car parking for staff
- Better placed loading zones and traffic planning
- Outdoor seating and dining areas
- Improved connection with public transport and bicycle lanes.
Business owners also want guarantees that capital works will not drive customers away, as occurred during the many months of Bunda Street upgrades in Civic.
“The goal of beautification is welcome, but without practical solutions to infrastructure pressures and well-executed construction strategies, there is a risk some businesses could effectively face a third shutdown in just a few months. No business is placed to survive months of footpath and scaffolding chaos after the massive financial downturns experienced since before Christmas,” Kel Watt said.
“Thankfully the City Renewal Authority (CRA) has shown a genuine desire to engage with Braddon business and residents so far. We are hopeful that will continue so long-term benefits are delivered, as well an immediate and much-needed sugar hit.
“Solutions to traffic and parking pressures are vital to ensure Braddon remains a destination for shoppers and diners. People wanting to enjoy Braddon’s excellent bars, cafes and restaurants will become frustrated and stay away, otherwise.
“With hundreds employed in the hospitality sector, parking should also consider the safety of staff finishing shifts late at night. At the moment many young women and men are forced to walk through Haig Park or nearby dark streets to their car.
“These type upgrade opportunities are few and far between. We have to get Braddon’s projects done right the first time or we risk many long years of unnecessary frustration,” Kel Watt said.
BURT will undertake a survey of Braddon businesses over the next few days and give feedback to the CRA to help guide the Government’s approach.
ENDS
Contact: Kel Watt (Watt Advocacy & Communications) 0411 707 489 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
3 June 2020
Braddon businesses have applauded today’s announcement by the ACT Government’s to upgrade the precinct – but have called for consultation to avoid unintended negative consequences.
Braddon’s United Retailers & Traders (BURT) say the fast-tracking of $13 million of works in Braddon and Dickson should help recovery after the smoky summer and coronavirus shutdowns as long as priority is given to projects that are known to be needed by both businesses and customers.
BURT spokesperson Kel Watt said the main concerns identified over the last couple of years were:- Convenient car parking for clients and customers
- Safe and secure car parking for staff
- Better placed loading zones and traffic planning
- Outdoor seating and dining areas
- Improved connection with public transport and bicycle lanes
Business owners also want guarantees that capital works will not drive customers away, as occurred during the many months of Bunda Street upgrades in Civic.
“The goal of beautification is welcome, but without practical solutions to infrastructure pressures and well-executed construction strategies, there is a risk some businesses could effectively face a third shutdown in just a few months. No business is placed to survive months of footpath and scaffolding chaos after the massive financial downturns experienced since before Christmas,” Kel Watt said.
“Thankfully the City Renewal Authority (CRA) has shown a genuine desire to engage with Braddon business and residents so far. We are hopeful that will continue so long-term benefits are delivered, as well an immediate and much-needed sugar hit.
“Solutions to traffic and parking pressures are vital to ensure Braddon remains a destination for shoppers and diners. People wanting to enjoy Braddon’s excellent bars, cafes and restaurants will become frustrated and stay away, otherwise.
“With hundreds employed in the hospitality sector, parking should also consider the safety of staff finishing shifts late at night. At the moment many young women and men are forced to walk through Haig Park or nearby dark streets to their car.
“These type upgrade opportunities are few and far between. We have to get Braddon’s projects done right the first time or we risk many long years of unnecessary frustration,” Kel Watt said.
BURT will undertake a survey of Braddon businesses over the next few days and give feedback to the CRA to help guide the Government’s approach.
Contact: Kel Watt (Watt Advocacy & Communications) 0411 707 489 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
BURT invited to work with ACT Government to grow Yes!Fest into Canberra's Mardi Grad
It's great news for Braddon with the ACT Chief Minister inviting BURT to work with the ACT Government to grow Yes!Fest into Canberra's very own Mardi Gras. Please see our Media Release below.
And it is certainly nice for the local business community to be recognised in making 2018's Yes!Fest a success. Thanks Chief Minister Barr!
BURT's next step will be to work closely with local businesses, the Yes!Fest Board, LGBTQI community & Braddon residents to make sure we present a unified plan to ensure the event is a success & everyone benefits.