Why this latest retail space in the Lismore CBD could offer promise of new jobs

Business owner with more than a decade of experience helping to bring people to Lismore by “enhancing its retail options” thanks to new site filling market gap.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES: The proposed plans for 50 Keen St, Lismore.

A former Northern Rivers dance studio could get an encore as a development for a new fishmonger in its place is proposed.

The application was submitted to Lismore City Council by business owner Michael Swift last week for 50 Keen St.

According to the documents, the space opposite BCC Cinemas used to be a dance studio but will undergo major revamps to transform it to a retail space including removing the timber floors.

“I believe the town is in need of a retail seafood business and this will be a boost to the local economy as well as helping to bring people to Lismore by enhancing its retail options,” Mr Swift wrote.

“I have been running a seafood retail outlet through the produce markets and farmers’ markets for over ten years in Lismore and have continually grown from a sales perspective over this period.”

If approved, the mezzanine area will also be turned into general storage room.

The proposed plans for 50 Keen St, Lismore.

Mr Swift also hinted at potential employment opportunities from the development.

“It would require 1-2 staff myself included to start off with the intent of slowly growing, therefore providing employment opportunities in the future and generally providing a positive social and economic impact,” he said.

Hours of operation are expected to be 10am – 6pm Monday to Friday, with weekend hours considered.

It is not yet known how much the alterations/additions are expected to cost