Council pledges support for fire-affected businesses
Council and the Southern Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Industry are working together to assist businesses impacted by the fire last Thursday night in Bowral’s CBD.
Council’s General Manager Lisa Miscamble said Council was focused on offering immediate and longer-term assistance.
“On behalf of Council I offer my deepest sympathies to all the shop owners who’ve built up their businesses only to have them destroyed in a matter of hours,” she said.
“To help affected businesses get back on their feet as soon as possible, we’re working closely with the Southern Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Industry to learn how we can assist.”
Steve Horton, Chair of the Southern Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Industry said, “The Chamber and Council are working together to achieve the best results for the local businesses that have been impacted by the fire.”
Ms Miscamble said initial focus is around immediate measures to make the area safe and ensure neighbouring businesses could continue trade.
“We have established a business concierge service for those businesses directly impacted by the fire and will be working with the property owner’s agent to provide hoarding to protect these retailers,” she said. “We’ll also be cleaning the area to ensure shoppers can return as soon as it is safe to do so.”
“We’ll also be working with the Chamber and local businesses to investigate mid to longer-term measures to beautify the area to ensure the precinct remains inviting until a decision is made on the future of the site by the owner.”
Ms Miscamble said it was imperative that Council continue to work with other lead agencies including Transport for NSW.
“Council is committed to working with Transport for NSW as to how we can assist in managing any traffic issues as the clean-up begins,” she said.
Ms Miscamble said fire-impacted business owners should call Council on 4868 0888 to speak to the Business Concierge Officer who can detail what assistance Council is offering.
“I would also like to commend the crews from Fire and Rescue NSW who attended the blaze and helped contain what could have been a far worse situation,” Ms Miscamble added.