Kingborough Council is transforming the main street of Kingston, Channel Highway, into an attractive and inviting destination to improve the retail and commercial experiences of residents and visitors.
Kingborough Mayor, Paula Wriedt said that while the transformation will be fantastic once complete, Council is concerned about the short-term loss of foot traffic into local businesses.
“Council has been working with local businesses affected by the road closure during the construction and post-construction phase,” Cr Wriedt said.
“We recently held a competition to encourage people to eat and shop at local restaurants, takeaways, and businesses, with the winners drawn last week.
“Council staff have also been helping, using local businesses to cater for events, buying their meals locally and participating in weekly staff group lunches at affected businesses.
“Council has also waived fees and charges for affected food businesses where possible.
“In addition to these measures, and in recognition of the impact on local businesses, at Monday night’s meeting Council approved a one-time compensation payment of $5,000 to affected business owners along the Channel Hwy, who can demonstrate lost revenue.
“This payment is intended to offset the approximate average annual rates amount.
“Council is working hard to support these businesses, but we also need our community’s help.
“All of these businesses are still accessible, and we implore our residents to keep shopping locally throughout the upgrade.
“Work continues on the upgrade, with new footpaths and the southern side of the Highway due to open in the coming days.
“Council would like to thank everyone for their continued patience and understanding during the CBD upgrade along Channel Highway in Kingston.”
Further information on the upgrade and the progress of works can be found here.