Car park work halves trade

A Woy Woy business owner has reported a reduction of more than 50 per cent in trade since construction on the expanded Woy Woy Commuter Car Park began.

Creative Courtyards proprietor Ms Janice Rutherford said her business was now "hidden in a corner" and surrounded by noise, dust and construction fences.

"I understand that the CBD needs to expand its car parking in order to move ahead but it's been a nightmare ever since construction started and not just for commuters," Ms Rutherford said.

"We have experienced a significant drop in pedestrian traffic around our business because customers are deterred from coming here.

"And why wouldn't they when there is every possibility shoppers struggle for up to an hour to find a car park.

"Not to mention the dust problem that has swamped the area, covering cars and deterring people with allergy and respiratory problems."

Ms Rutherford of Tascott, who has owned the business with partner Neil for four years, said the construction work surrounding their business has also inhibited on plans to sell the business.

"At the moment, the strength of our business has been in landscape and design and we are very lucky that it has kept us going," Ms Rutherford said.

"We would like to remind the community that we are still running our art gallery with artwork displayed throughout the year as well as our garden centre providing inspiration to experienced and novice gardeners alike.

"I am also stepping into interior design helping people style their kitchens and bathrooms and providing suitable colour choices for homes."

Clare Graham, 12 Jul 2010 Interviewee: Janice Rutherford, Creative Courtyards