By guest
reporter
SOPHIE
THIRKELL
from
Scotland
The planned transport hub and business centre in Whittaker Street has met with mixed reviews from traders in the Central Business District.
Simon Reu (at right), owner of Lone Dingo in Todd Mall, says the complex would have “a negative impact” on the CBD.
He suggests the government should utilise the infrastructure there and “develop what we already have”.
But Daniel York (at left), of Eddy’s Ice Cream, argues: “If it’s going to do the town better then it’s a good thing.”
Both Mr York and Mr Reu report that business is steady. However, the past five years has seen a slight decline on Todd Mall.
Councillor Steve Brown says: “Of course [the complex] would be a great asset to the community. Commerce goes where commerce goes, it’s a competitive game.”
However, manager of Phone a Flower Kate Ryan argues the project simply “won’t happen”.
She says: “I don’t think the population is big enough to warrant another commercial centre.”
Terri Coccetti, of Beauty on the Mall, thinks the complex would be another “white elephant”.
She says: “If the Northern Territory Government were looking to spend taxpayers’ money perhaps they should open up opportunities for first time business operators.”
She says that could be done by offering support similar to that given to first home buyers.