Traders’ groups support Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor’s calls to close city streets

A radical idea by the Lord Mayor to close some CBD streets for up to three months has the backing of traders’ groups who say it’s “time for bold ideas” – but what do you think?

Closing city streets for months at a time to let restaurants and shops spill into the streets to encourage people to return to the CBD has been supported by traders’ groups.

Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor, among a plethora of radical plans for the city, called for streets to be closed for between a month to three months at a time, to allow restaurants and retail spaces to take advantage of the areas immediately outside their business.

Ms Verschoor’s argument claimed that allowing businesses to operate in an outdoor space would encourage people to return to the city, and dine outdoors in a Covid-safe way where social distancing and fresh air can be taken advantage of.

CBD streets such as Vardon Ave have closed in the past for various festival events.

Adelaide Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor. Picture: Adelaide City Council

An example of outdoor dining in the CBD at Leigh St. Picture: Matt Loxton

The notion was supported by East End Co-ordination Group President Frank Hannon-Tan, who also owns restaurant Amalfi and wine bar Mother Vine in the city.

“I think that, on the face of it, it’s a good idea,” he said.

“The reality is that people are hesitant to go back into crowded places.”

Mr Hannon-Tan said encouraging patrons to dine outdoors would help restore normality.

Frank Hannon-Tan (right), pictured with Amalfi staff member Chatchawan Simpson. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

“Anything that we can do to get people to come out and feel safe and secure is fundamental.”

He praised the “proactive” city council, and said alternate thinking is key to future successes.

“Vouchers and an incentive and all these things add confidence for people to come back out.”

Adelaide West End Association spokesman Andrew Wallace was supportive, but more critical, and said planning was essential.

“We’ve been through this process over the years and sometimes it’s worked and sometimes it hasn’t,” Mr Wallace said, reflecting on a trial period of closing Hindley St to traffic.

He praised Ms Verschoor’s “bold” thinking.

“I think it’s very important to start making a position about the future of the city,” Mr Wallace said.

“She’s completely correct to say now is the time to make bold ideas.”

A positive to the city’s current situation, Mr Wallace said, was an opportunity to mould how its spaces are being used.

Adelaide West End Association spokesman Andrew Wallace. Picture: Dean Martin

“I really think we have an opportunity to rethink the outdoor spaces in the city,” he said.

“What makes Rundle St a really great street … is actually to do with the traders on that street and how the traders interact with the public realm.

“I think anything could help business that are currently struggling.”