East Perth retailers counting on a bounce from new bridge
East Perth traders are hoping to kick some goals when the pedestrian footbridge linking the new Perth stadium opens.
Matagarup Bridge, which will connect Optus Stadium on the Burswood Peninsula to East Perth near Gloucester Park, was scheduled to be completed in May, but the opening has been delayed due to technical problems and bad weather.
On major event days, about 14,000 people are expected to cross the bridge, bringing a new wave of patronage to East Perth businesses.
The Public Transport Authority anticipates shuttle buses on Nelson Avenue will ferry about 6000 people to and from into and out of the area, with another 8000 parking in East Perth.
Many are also hoping the footbridge will draw people into the precinct on non-event days, giving a welcome economic boost to the area.
CBRE’s Colin Gilchrist is among those who believe access from the stadium will have a positive effect on East Perth.
“You are going to get people, when events are on during the week, going down there earlier, spending money and using the facilities, whether that be car parking, food and beverage, public transport,” he said. “Anything to bring more activity to these sectors is beneficial for retailers and office users.”
An artist’s impression of the Matagarup Bridge, linking East Perth and Burswood Peninsula. Image: Main Roads WA
The Royal on the Waterfront, nestled in Claisebrook Cove, is gearing up for hungry sports fans, since it will be only a 10-minute walk from the stadium.
General manager Anoop Nair said he expected an upturn in trade once the bridge opened. Its sports bar was already offering pre- and post-game packages.
“Our plan is to make sure our customers are served quickly and that there’s value-for-money food and drink,” he said.
“The East Perth vicinity will definitely be positively impacted by the estimated 14,000 people expected to utilise the bridge on game days. City of Perth modelling estimates about 1000-2000 people coming through our side of East Perth.”
Mr Nair said there were plenty of restaurants, cafes and hotels around to service those crowds.
For George Manios, of Centrepoint Realty, game-day will certainly bring more people into the area but the real game-changer will be allowing one-hour free parking on Royal Street. The concept is being considered by the Perth City Council after a petition last year.
“The area needs it – it will certainly increase the vibe and the demand for retail and make it more of a destination, not only to the locals but to people who live outside the East Perth area,” Mr Manios he said. “It will help support the retailers who are already there and really spur on any new franchises or food or retail outlets to consider opening.”
Mr Manios said various franchises were now looking more closely at the area, and there were good leasing incentives on offer.
“East Perth has gone through a transition where a lot of the office tenancies have now moved on, which is providing some great opportunities for some good retail and food outlets to come on board,” he said.
“We are at a very low point compared to the past 10 years so it is an excellent time to get into the area, where they are not paying a premium rate.”
Closure of old stadium has upside
When Domain Stadium hosted its final AFL game last winter, many wondered how Subiaco would deal with the loss of its weekend football crowds. The answer, it seems, is with pub beer wars, more alfresco dining options and street parties.
Subiaco’s main street. Photo: City of Subiaco
Western Suburbs Business Association president Mark Hann believes Subiaco businesses have an opportunity to capitalise on the change in circumstances.
He admits losing the footy crowd had been a concern. “Having 20,000-odd people wandering into the precinct pre- and post-footy certainly added a level of income to businesses, particularly licensed premises and food and hospitality,” he said.
“But there is also an opportunity now for some of the retailers. Often the footy crowd took up all the parking, so people who would otherwise come in to shop avoided the area like the plague.
“People are now able to come and park comfortably in Subiaco – there is lots of free parking depending on the time of day – and enjoy its offerings.”
Mr Hann said he expected the precinct to continue to draw football fans making their way to and from the new stadium, via the express train service.
“It’s not going to be chock-a-block like it was,” he said. But a smaller crowd would mean better service in an enjoyable environment.
And the $3.50 pints certainly help.
