Business is back in Torquay

TORQUAY’s commercial increase has paved the way for a big summer following months of uncertainty.

Business owners are now looking to set up in the coastal town with clothing shops, restaurants and semi-professional companies opting for a sea change.

The increase in leases comes as businesses across the state have experienced a loosening of restrictions in preparation for a COVID normal.

“COVID-19 has unwittingly spurred residential sales to a level never seen before and commercial has followed,” Bryan Hayden from Hayden Real Estate said.

“Last year we had serious bushfires deadening holiday rentals and commercials along the coast and then of course COVID hit,” he said.

The tourism hotspot is currently looking strong as businesses return to the previously vacant spaces along the main street.

Eli Hayes, commercial agent at Hayden Real Estate, said Torquay had flatlined until recently.

“During COVID-19 people had a chance to think about what they wanted, but it was hard to lock anyone in until now,” she said.

Industrial and commercial spaces that have remained vacant for up to eight months are now being leased across the shire.

Tim Carson from McCartney Real Estate said the increase in new stores to the area is the result of online businesses looking to upscale in the area.

“A lot of online businesses have outgrown their garage,” he said.

“It is nice to see vacant spaces filled with people having a go.”

The new businesses in town will offer more variety and the chance for people to shop locally.

“We have just released the handbrake holding back businesses,” Mr Hayden said.

While new business brings new life to the township the permanency is still in question.

“Surf Coast Shire needs to facilitate jobs to ensure growth, if we can continue to provide jobs then business will succeed,” he said.

With early indicators of summer approaching, Mr Hayden hopes the weather will bring back plenty of business to Torquay.

“Sunshine makes the Surf Coast prosper.”