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Business Groups urge best city outcome in Mall decision
Business has joined forces to unanimously back a partial opening of Crown Street Mall saying this has the best chance revitalising the economic heart of Wollongong.
The Illawarra Business Chamber, the Property Council of Australia and Tourism Wollongong have lodged a joint submission backing Wollongong City Council’s Option C and say Council should choose what’s best for the city not necessarily the most popular option.
IBC President Les Dion said Wollongong’s CBD was already highlighted as one of six regional growth areas by the State Government, with an estimated jobs growth of 10,000 new workers but this would not happen without a major rejuvenation to attract investment.
“This is the best opportunity we have to make brave decisions which will benefit our city. The combined business groups have considered the options and looked at council’s economic reports on its web site and we believe Option C provides the best opportunities,” Mr Dion said.
“Our groups represent more than 1000 member companies in NSW alone – companies who help shape, build, finance and run our city, including many who also have the experience in investing successfully in other cities.
“For the IBC alone, this represents 42,000 employed people in the region. We are not three people speaking on behalf of our self-interests - our interest is in the future of this city.”
Property Council Illawarra Chapter Chair Geoff Jones said the groups wanted what was best for Wollongong.
“The decision on the mall needs to be based on what’s best for Wollongong, not the option which may win a popularity contest,” Mr Jones said.
“Option C would provide the best hope for growing jobs in the city centre.
“The mall is long overdue for a major overhaul if we are to compete with other regional cities in attracting the investment dollar, and the people of Wollongong deserve more than just a facelift.”.
Tourism Wollongong Chairperson Jim Eddy said the tourism sector supported the need to define Wollongong as the regional capital and provide the city with the best opportunity to stand out as unique to other refurbished regional shopping centres.
Media Contacts:
Les Dion, IBC President, Ph: 0418 422792
Geoff Jones, Property Council Illawarra Chair, Ph: 0418 421074
Jim Eddy, Tourism Wollongong Chairperson, Ph: 0408 029 030

























