Vacancies Plummet on Revitalised Norton Street

Retail vacancies along Norton Street in Leichhardt have fallen to a four year low with a range of Council initiatives boosting the flagship main street.

Administrator Richard Pearson said just 10 retail properties remain vacant in 2016.

“That’s a significant drop from the 23 vacant properties registered in April 2013,” he said.

“It is a very healthy sign pointing to the revitalisation of Norton Street that we have witnessed in recent years.

“From street activations to a variety of new businesses starting up, Council activations are definitely making a difference.”

New projects positively impacting Norton Street include:
• The Renew Leichhardt project to trial new businesses in empty shops;
• The roll out of Free Wi-Fi along Norton Street;
• Removal of footpath dining license fees;
• Planning changes to make it cheaper and easier to open small bars;
• Place-making and street activation including interactive play areas to attract street visitors;
• The Leichhardt Long Lunch series to bring the community together at long lunch tables.

Mr Pearson said much credit for the Norton Street renewal can be attributed to the 2013-16 Economic and Employment Development Plan developed by the former Leichhardt Council which is in the third year of its 4 year activation period.

“Council consulted widely with local businesses to boost Norton Street in particular as part of our economic development initiatives in the Plan,” he said.

“We are now seeing the positive results on Norton Street of a number of projects and events that have been embraced by local businesses and the wider community.

“Not only have vacancies dropped but existing businesses are investing. This includes the recently refurbished Royal Hotel as well as our first small bar at 54 Norton Street plus a host of other new businesses and start-ups bringing a better offer to customers and visitors to Norton Street.”

Vacancies Plummet on Revitalised Norton Street

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