A NEARBY business has slammed dramatic changes proposed for Invermay Lane under the Marketplace's $30 million expansion.
The one-way lane will become a two-way thoroughfare and be transformed into a shared zone as recommended by Wagga City Council’s (WWCC) traffic committee.
The changes form part of 16 conditions on the Marketplace redevelopment, which includes 20 new stores across an additional 3200 square metres.
Country High Tea House owner Sharon Hagen believes the changes will impact business by squeezing out customer parking and holds concern over pedestrian safety.
“It will definitely affect us,” she said. “We’ve seen so many near misses for people crossing the lane.
“It’s absolutely ridiculous.”
While staff parking won’t be affected, Mrs Hagen is worried cars won’t be able to stop along a 70m stretch on the southern kerb alignment of Forsyth Street.
Mingalar Asian Grocery co-owner Su Wai shared concerns over pedestrians, but hoped increase traffic would boost business.
“With a double lane, I think it will increase traffic,” she said.
“My concern is for pedestrian safety because if you’re coming from McDonald’s side, you’re blinded.”
But Specsavers Wagga has welcomed the changes to promote foot fare and shared access.
Store partner Richard Skidmore and optical assistance Linda Stig said improved access would help new and existing customers take advantage of services, and eliminate difficulties when crossing.
WWCC plans to increase safety signage and install convex reflective mirrors on the Forsyth Street entrance to increase safety.
A two-metre wide median strip will be constructed to join with the eastern end of the existing splitter island at the Baylis and Forsyth streets intersection.
Industry Superannuation Property Trust, Marketplace owners, general manager of development Chris McCluskey expects construction to begin ahead of Christmas with a completion date around next April.
