Chamber president John Anderson said the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, and disruption caused by the redevelopment of the Maude St Mall, provided an opportunity for Greater Shepparton City Council to help traders and customers.
The extended four-month freeze on paid parking is due to finish at the end of the month.
It was implemented in November to coincide with the relaxing of COVID-19 restrictions and to help businesses recover.
Mr Anderson said despite the hopes back in November, 2022 had been far from normal for businesses due to COVID-19 disruptions to staffing and supply chains. Hospitality has also had to deal with ongoing density limits as well as staffing issues.
“People are also being selective about where they go and what they do because of COVID,” he said.
“Businesses really do need a leg-up still and extending the free timed parking would be a good way to give back to the community.”
Mr Anderson said the mall redevelopment was a positive for the city but the disruption during construction was a disincentive to shoppers.
“While the mall project is on, extending free timed parking would be a lifeline welcomed by businesses and customers,” he said.
“It is a really good way for council to give back to the community.”
Mr Anderson has written to the council seeking an extension at least until it receives a completed cost-benefit analysis on the impact of the past four months.
Mr Anderson said feedback from businesses was positive, including anecdotal evidence that shoppers had enjoyed a more relaxed experience and had extended their shopping time.
Gary 'Nipper' Harvey from Intersport Shepparton is approaching one of his busiest times of the year, as footy, soccer and netball seasons approach.
“It is a no-brainer while the mall is boarded up because it is not enticing for people to come down here,” he said.
“There are not a lot of positives for retail at the moment with COVID, then you add the construction and lack of stock.”
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