It's time to end denial over the state of Rotorua's CBD, a reader says.
We note the Mayor's view (News, March 19 ) that the "CBD [is] not just shops". In our view, the current closure rate means that one day there won't be any shops. And that they are local businesses and ratepayers that are giving up the struggle.
Cr Karen Hunt said
that the CBD is "heading in the right direction" because several projects (art, CCTV, markets, City Focus/ Te Manawa, Eat Streat, Jean Batten park, free entertainment, joint patrols, Lakefront) will increase foot traffic, and therefore, spending.
Some of these projects have helped foot traffic. Others have not. Some predate this Council. One, the City Focus, converted a pedestrian, tourist information, Police and cultural performance precinct into a soulless and dangerous intersection.
Our suggestion is for the council to end the denial and to facilitate community strategic planning intended to achieve a turnaround of the CBD. How? Review and integrate currently-separate, ad hoc and piecemeal initiatives to ensure the survival and growth of CBD businesses.
Steps? Consult owners on rents and investment plans, especially to transform exterior decoration and convert upstairs into accommodation. Consult businesses on parking, health and safety, thuggery, cycleway, markets, etc, as well as whistleblowing mechanisms to guarantee the flow of feedback. Once the CBD turnaround strategy is approved by the council, give it its own budget and deadlines, and a fresh, sensible and effective project manager.
