Comments on: Council launches program to address empty shops

By: Rebecca E

Rebecca E — Sun, 16 Feb 2020 07:16:37 +0000

I’m not sure what $2000 is going to cover, having just closed my beauty salon in James Street due to the high costs and minimal foot traffic, I cannot see how a business is meant to be established with the large rental bond demanded up front (often 20k+) then the fit out of the shop, usually at least 30-50k… and if there are no events held to bring people to the main streets these businesses reside on and are relying solely on foot traffic, you can see how you are already running at a loss (paying all these expenses off) before paying two rents, trying to feed a family generally and keep stock and continuously updating marketing materials to draw in whatever foot traffic there may be..

By: Lisa

Lisa — Sun, 16 Feb 2020 01:58:46 +0000

I think this sounds good, but a side issue needs to be holding the owners of these properties accountable for up keeping the maintenance required to keep the buildings safe and operational for businesses wanting to lease them. It would also seem that many landlords are greedy with rents, which doesn’t help entice businesses.

By: Marjorie

Marjorie — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 12:34:37 +0000

It’s a fantastic idea in theory, but I’m not sure how $2000 is going to attract or even benefit anyone. That doesn’t even cover a month’s lease for our shop in Wynnum. We’ve had a business in Wynnum for the past 12 years and it’s sadly a case of greedy landlords. Our lease was increased just recently by $300 per month and now we are seriously deciding whether or not to stay.

By: Peter. Taylor

Peter. Taylor — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 04:22:52 +0000

The Council will achieve high occupancy rates in Wynnum while absentee landlords charge unrealistic rent & neglect to keep their buildings in good condition. Recent closure of the Edith St fruit shop illustrates the miserable attitude of some landlords & their agents.