Tired old Wollongong Mall seems beyond redemption. At the stroke of six pm the traders slam their doors shut - and the place dies. Apart from the odd wandering drunk, the Mall is deserted and despite the supposed safety of numerous cctv cameras, it is a place ordinary citizens avoid because of it's crime reputation.
We are about to spend fourteen million dollars on a makeover, but once again this plan simply rearranges the street furniture - and does nothing to bring the place to life at night. What brings people out at night ? A combination of interesting places to eat, entertainment, music - a scene of frivolity and fun - and that is what is sadly missing in the Wollongong Mall.
Let us hope that GPT, the creators of the new shopping centre across the road from the old Mall will not make the same mistakes. All the existing buildings have been levelled and the giant crane that will help build a " Greenfield " creation on the site is now in place. The opportunity exists to create a mix of the right business models to make " Keira street " a " fun place " !
In particular, Globe lane has the potential to become a quirky attraction in it's own right with just the right planning. Melbourne has made great use of it's inner city lane ways, allowing them to develop a mix of small, intimate bars, specialised eating places and an array of boutiques that are a must for the fashion conscious. It would be a shame if rigid thinking and unbending rules stifled the creativity that such a concept needs.
We have yet to see the layout plans for this new shopping centre. Hopefully, it has been prepared by people who are " thinking outside the nine dots " and not merely dove tailing retail space to get the best financial return. Opportunities like the new Keira street centre come just once in a lifetime to most cities. What a pity if this one passes us by - and is wasted !
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