City's heart is still beating: Leasing agent run off feet

Strong commercial interest in Mackay CBD shop spaces

LEASED: Knight Frank representative Louise Slater celebrates a new lease with tenant Work Connection CEO Katie Bright. Picture: Ashley Pillhofer

WHILE most stand by the firm belief the city heart is dead, Knight Frank Retail Leasing Executive Louise Slater says this is not the case.

In fact, Ms Slater highlights it is exactly the opposite.

The demand for retail space in the city centre is currently promoting a weekly commute for her from the Townsville based retail leasing agent Knight Frank to keep up with movement in Mackay.

"No, I am swamped, I'm down here every week now. This week I am here twice and next week twice also,” she said.

"There is a heartbeat back in the area.”

Ms Slater said the Dome is an example of this. The building which was desolate last year has almost reached 100 per cent capacity with 10 if it's 14 tenancies full and a suitable amount of interest in the remaining spaces.

Ms Slater said interest in Knight Frank retail space has become competitive enough she is able to be more strategic about the tenants it welcomes and the deals struck with building owners.

"I am seeing all my activity in Mackay in the city area... the trends we are seeing are government service providers and recruitment,” she said.

"But having said that I am also talking to some national food retailers that see Mackay as a market they want to be in.

"There is also interest from national retailers who are looking at Mackay city.”

In the Dome location, three National Disability Scheme service providers are already in the building with another provider set to become a tenant soon.

On Tuesday mental wellbeing provider Selectability opened in the location with more providers opening their doors next week.

"I think people see there is opportunity in the city heart, because there is opportunity,” Ms Slater said.

"Wood street is cool, whatever is happening there is working. Tere is a good vibe around Wood St and it's helping with activity. There is confidence; it is only green sprouts but it is growing.”

Originally published as City's heart is still beating: Leasing agent run off feet