Shop owners sold on Bridge Mall vibe

CONFIDENCE is what’s emanating from a cluster of creative businesses in Bridge Mall almost 12 months after the $23.3 million upgraded centre was reopened.

The mall is taking an arty shape at its Peel Street South end, while more people are drawn to the shopping strip with the influx of businesses such as Betty’s Burgers and Australia Post.

Mia + Talbot’s Lea Moorehouse said she was excited about the area’s future.

With a need for space, Mrs Moorehouse moved her candles and gifts shop to the mall, and was encouraged by the upgrade.

“It’s real vibey,” she said. “There’s people coming down every day for their coffees, and having a little look in the shops. Definitely having parking outside has made a massive difference as well.”

Mrs Moorehouse said the chains that had opened in the area was a positive sign.

However, she was heartened by Ballarat businesses that also had moved in.

“Up here, this end of the mall particularly, is a lot of new, local business owners, so family businesses,” she said. “So I think we’ve all got the confidence that the place is an upcoming area that’s going to be successful.” She highlighted that businesses were complementing each other, establishing a creative hub in the mall. Mia + Talbot ran candle workshops, while neighbouring shop The Art Club Hub offered casual canvas classes as well as classes and parties. The Art Club Hub co-owner Erin Robinson said their business had been there for two years.

She had been more than encouraged about the mall’s progress.

“I think it’s been fabulous for the Ballarat community,” she said. “It’s filled with locals with unique businesses and, certainly for us, an amazing artistic hub for Ballarat.

“Since the revitalisation, I think it’s brought so many more people down. There’s a whole different vibe down here now and it’s really exciting to be a part of.”

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said shop vacancy rates since the start of the project had dropped from 30 to nine.

She said there had been fewer instances of crime and antisocial behaviour across the mall and Little Bridge Street, and that traders had told the council they felt more comfortable and confident in the area.

“We believe this $23.3 million investment is already delivering benefits and will continue to play an important role in building long term vibrancy, confidence and economic activity in Ballarat’s CBD,” she said.