TWO petitions are circulating regarding the proposed works on Falls Road, Fish Creek, with Brad Anderson of Fish Creek Hardware, concerned about the negative impact these changes will have on businesses in town.
“We are facing six to nine months of disturbances for the construction of the works, and all that will do is drive away business. Last week we already lost internet, phone and EFTPOS for work that we didn’t agree to. It’s simply a waste of taxpayers’ money, because consultations haven’t been done right from the beginning,” said Brad.
The first petition is to stop the removal of car parking directly out the front of Fish Creek Hardware who are open 5.5 days a week, and the other is to reconsider the removal of the parking around the memorial (to turn into grassland), with Mr Anderson stating that, there is no consideration for trucks, tractors, trailers or caravans within the new parking bays.
“(South Gippsland Shire) are also changing the access to the street behind us, which will impede our truck deliveries,” said Mr Anderson.
Mr Anderson wrote to the South Gippsland Shire Council stating that, ‘While we appreciate the intent to improve infrastructure and accessibility, we continue to hold serious concerns regarding the negative impact these changes will have on our business, our customers, and the overall commercial viability of this part of town.
‘In particular, we strongly object to the use of data obtained from the January 2022 parking survey as a key determinant in shaping the new design.’
“That survey was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, when public health restrictions were still in effect and visitor numbers were considerably reduced. It is highly unlikely that the results of that survey accurately reflect current normal or peak trading conditions in Fish Creek.
“During January 2022, Victoria had COVID-19 restrictions in place that affected travel and public activities. While there were no strict lockdowns in regional Victoria at that time, certain public health measures were enforced statewide, including density limits, reintroduced on January 6, 2022, for hospitality and entertainment venues, limiting capacity to one person per two square metres, and mask mandates, where masks were required in all indoor settings, except private residences, from January 7, 2022.
Mr Anderson stated that, therefore, while travel to regional areas like Fish Creek was permitted, the presence of these restrictions likely influenced visitor behaviour and numbers during that period.
“I’ve stated to the council that we strongly ask that you consider commissioning an updated survey during a peak period to ensure the findings are representative and reliable.”
Mr Anderson confirmed that since launching the petition, he had gathered over 200 signatures from concerned customers and community members. “The response has been swift and significant, indicating widespread concern about the proposed changes, particularly regarding the removal of convenient parking and the effects on accessibility for tradespeople, elderly patrons, and those using larger vehicles.
We continue to believe that the loss of critical parking directly outside our store, as well as around the memorial, will negatively affect local businesses, staff, and customers alike.
Fish Creek Hardware is a locally owned and independently operated store that employs local residents and services the broader region.
“We remain committed to supporting improvements to the township but believe it is essential to achieve a balance that supports, not compromises, the viability of long-standing local businesses.”
Mr Anderson is in discussions with Cr Scott Rae regarding a fair balance between the needs of various users of the town centre and supporting improved business outcomes with a modern, accessible and practical town centre district.
“We are just hoping for a good outcome, despite the works already underway.”
