NSW CBD and South East Light Rail a positive initiative for business - ARA

PEAK retail industry body the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) congratulates the New South Wales Government on moving forward with the CBD and South East Light Rail project but remains cautious over works scheduled close to Christmas in the Sydney CBD.

ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said this initiative was a win for the business community and that retailers are pleased to know the capacity for the project will be larger than expected but reassurance is still needed over works disruptions and access for deliveries and services.

“The NSW Government is getting on with the job of delivering the CBD and South East Light Rail project, and the important work along George Street will help ensure utilities are protected. Ultimately, this work will help ensure that the community can begin enjoying the new light rail service as soon as possible and give the great global city of Sydney some of the same commuter access to retailers that other cities such as Melbourne enjoy.

“However, the ARA does have some concerns regarding certain dates outlined in the projects construction plan. We would caution the NSW Government to be wary of work disrupting retail business in the CBD, particularly on the dates closest to Christmas around Margaret Street, Hunter Street, George Street and King Street.

“The ARA is in consultation with the NSW Government and City of Sydney over impacts to its many members affected along the prime retail corridor around George Street.

“While proposed works are on Monday’s just before Christmas, their proximity to Christmas, (particularly on the last trading Monday before Christmas) does raise concerns over how vehicle and pedestrian movements will impact on retail trade on what are historically some of the highest trade days of the year,” Mr Zimmerman said.

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Since 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has been the peak industry body representing Australia’s $265 billion retail sector, which employs over 1.2 million people. The ARA ensures retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 5,000 independent and national retail members throughout Australia.

Visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.