City of Nedlands under fire from business owners over lack of consultation about roadworks

The group of business people say work narrowing the road and changing the kerbing has caused significant safety issues.

Veranda Coastal Living owners Sandy and Andrew Harvey said the changes meant customers were unable to access the carpark safely.

Mrs Harvey said she was now seeking compensation from the City for loss of income.

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“For the three months the works were happening people couldn’t access the park by vehicle or by footpath and even when it was open it looked like a construction site, so people didn’t think we were open,” she said.

“We’ve sent emails, made calls to the City to try get them to help us but no one has got back to us; there hasn’t been enough communication.

“We came from Claremont last year after being there for 15 years. If I had known this was going to happen we wouldn’t have moved, because it has impacted our business.”

Oasis Umbrella World owner Denise Clinch said the changes had also made it dangerous for vehicles entering Bulimba Road from Stirling Highway.

“It’s an accident waiting to happen. We’ve had a number of near-misses and sooner or later someone is going to get hurt,” she said.

“There’s been no communication or help from their end and it’s frustrating.”

Nedlands chief executive Greg Trevaskis said the City started consultation with residents on Stirling Highway in February, with feedback on the proposal sought from stakeholders.

“The road is not dangerous. The design conforms with Main Roads Australia standards,” he said.

“The City has been liaising with the nominating property owners’ representation, who is responsible to liaise with each tenants.

“Under the Local Government Act 1995, the City is not required to pay compensation for undertaking roadwork improvements, drainage and other authorised works.”

Mr Harvey said he hoped the City could help provide assistance to let customers know the businesses were still operating.

“I don’t think they understand how badly this has impacted all the businesses on the corner of Stirling Highway and Bulimba Road,” he said.