Construction of Canberra's light rail extension is causing significant disruptions to businesses on London Circuit. Owners are forced to adapt their operations, with some temporarily closing and others adjusting their offerings to cater to the construction workforce.
Jamahl Bakri, owner of Alia bar and restaurant Saint Malo, says his businesses will be closing their doors to daily trade for at least two years. Located on the western side of London Circuit , both establishments are situated in an area currently off-limits to most motorists and on-road cyclists due to the construction of Canberra 's light rail extension. This extension will run from the city to Lake Burley Griffin, adding three new stops.
The closure was a difficult but necessary decision, Bakri explained, as the construction is expected to significantly reduce foot traffic in the area. 'It has been a very big decision to close this down for a period of time,' he said.'We're still here, we aren't going anywhere. We're just adapting to stay here.' Alia and Saint Malo will focus on hosting functions and events during the construction period, hoping to attract customers through special occasions. Just down the road, the Cupping Room cafe has already noticed a decrease in weekday customers and is planning to adjust its menu to better cater to the construction workers who may be frequenting the area. 'We will definitely need to adjust and adapt to a new way of trading on weekdays,''We will definitely need to adjust and adapt to a new way of trading on weekdays,'' said Sasa Sestic, founder of the Cupping Room. 'There will be new people coming through the area and they'll need their bacon and egg rolls, so we might change our menu.'Acting deputy project director Anthony Haraldson assures that businesses on London Circuit will remain accessible throughout the three-year construction period. He emphasizes that the public will still be able to reach these establishments and enjoy their services. ' People can still get there, people can get their coffee, go get the food they need or the services they provide,'' he said. 'We are also working with businesses to ensure way-finding signage is in place so that people who visit the city, who visit these businesses, know where they are and how to get there,' Haraldson added. While Bakri acknowledges the excellent communication from the project team, he expresses a hope for more financial support from the government for businesses like his that are significantly impacted by the construction. 'For the little people stuck in the middle, you just hope there was a bit more financial support from the government,' he said. However, Haraldson clarifies that providing financial support through rate relief is not government policy. 'What we are looking for is other ways of hearing from businesses about what we can do to assist,' he said. Despite the challenges, Bakri remains optimistic about the future, stating that 'there is light at the end of the tunnel' and believing that once complete, the light rail will be a positive addition to the area. 'It is going to be better for us. It is going to be better for everyone down this side of town,' he said.
Light Rail Construction London Circuit Canberra Businesses Adaptation Disruption
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