Cleveland councillor feels secure in business efforts as strained CBD faces COVID-19 ruin

An incumbent at a once picturesque bayside town admitted marginal businesses were in for a rough ride during the coronavirus crisis.

A QUIETLY confident incumbent reckons his business nous can help an already struggling bayside CBD survive coronavirus.

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Redlands councillor for Division 2 Peter Mitchell banked on long-term growth for Cleveland.

“Business is never for the faint-hearted and this is another challenge,” he said.

“Long-term I remain as confident as ever but boy oh boy there is going to be some who just won’t make it in the short-term.

“For those who were already marginal it is going to be extremely tough.

“Quality businesses will be able to ride it out with a bit help from state and federal governments and the community.”

Redlands incumbent for Division 2 Peter Mitchell was quietly confident at today's election.

The Cleveland CBD, once known for its thriving coffee and boutique store culture, has been marred of recent years with businesses struggling to keep open their doors.

But Cr Mitchell said his business strategies for the bayside idyll had gained traction.

“Pre-coronavirus I was very confident for the quality businesses in the Cleveland CBD.

Although it was taking its time it was transforming.

“The strategic thinking I was trying to bring for its rejuvenation is now needed more than ever.

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“Some of the initiatives I have been championing like the business concierge model have already gotten a leg-up and we need a lot more direct engagement with the businesses on the ground.

“So out of great challenge comes a great opportunity.

“With an increased shop local campaign I think this is going to bring out the best in us.”

Elected to council in 2016 as a member of Mayor Karen Williams’ team Cr Mitchell maintained his support for the controversial $1.4 billion Toondah Harbour proposal.

“The Ramsar convention does not preclude development,” Cr Mitchell said.

“I think there has been some mischief around Toondah.

“Unlike some others I am not afraid of the truth.

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“Let’s have it assessed properly and then stare the truth in the face.

“If it can’t happen it can’t happen but if it can then let us make the most of it.”