Jetty Road, a prominent beachside dining and retail strip in Adelaide, has navigated a period marked by significant challenges for traders. These issues included a six-month tramline closure, an algal bloom affecting the metropolitan coast, and extensive construction work.
Turning the Corner: Improvements Emerge
Recent developments indicate a shift, with the trams having reopened, the algal bloom largely dissipated, and major road construction milestones reached. The road reopened to traffic recently, with the entire $40 million project anticipated to conclude by August.
Visitors have noted improved accessibility and progress with the construction. Local residents have also expressed satisfaction with the return of tram services.
Mixed Fortunes for Traders
Traders, who previously experienced reduced visitor numbers, are now reporting hopeful signs. Matthew Blyth, a local bar owner, indicated that his business primarily relies on local clientele and experienced minimal direct impact from the construction. He noted positive sentiment within the hospitality sector.
Ian Matheson, an art gallery owner, described experiencing significant declines in foot traffic during the construction period, which led to trade levels worse than off-peak periods. However, he has observed an increase in foot traffic since the tram services resumed.
Montezumas, a Mexican restaurant established for 34 years, is set to close. The owner cited the external disruptions alongside the cost-of-living crisis as contributing factors.
Economic Impact and Council Data
Data published by the Holdfast Bay Council on its website indicates a decline in spending along Jetty Road during the last three months of the previous year compared to the corresponding period a year prior.
Spending in November declined by 6% to $39.7 million, and in December, it fell by 6.5% to $47.4 million. Increases in spending by local residents did not fully offset the reductions from visitors outside the area.
Mayor's Outlook
Holdfast Bay Mayor Amanda Wilson stated that a reduction in visitors from outside Adelaide during the construction process significantly affected the local economy. However, the Mayor also highlighted upcoming events intended to attract people back to the precinct.