‘Dead zone’: Is this iconic Aussie establishment at risk of closure?
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Aussies have seen several revered establishments close over the past year.
From community hubs to restaurants with decades of service under its belts, these closures marked the end of an era for their respective communities.
A historic area nestled in one of the country’s bustling districts is facing an uncertain future.
This development sparked major concerns among local business owners, who fear that the district is on the brink of becoming a 'dead zone'.
Sydney’s the Rocks face uncertainty as one of its most iconic tenants, the Argyle nightclub, announced its closure after 17 years of operations.
The Rocks has been a bustling hub of nightlife, culture, and history.
However, the nightclub's departure could indicate broader issues affecting the area.
These issues include the rising costs of living and increasing rent prices, which drive businesses and customers away.
Crystal Gallery owner Maria Hair has been in the Rocks for 37 years.
Yet, she expressed her worries about the area and its future.
‘If I got paid a dollar for everyone who said, “Oh where is this shop? Where is that shop?’ I would probably be wealthy by now, because there is a lot that has gone,’ Ms Hair shared in an interview.
‘It’s lonely. It’s sad not having a lot around now.’
Artist and gallery owner Shazia Imran echoed her fellow tenant’s sentiment.
Ms Imran also pointed out that the Rocks have struggled with its upkeep since the COVID-19 pandemic, along with lack of support for local commerce during the said period.
‘I’m really sad to see businesses going. The government needs to do something to give us support. I am definitely worried about the future,’ Ms Imran said.
The Argyle’s closure and the Mercantile Hotel’s renovations added to the people’s concerns.
Local and the Rocks employee Kat Pech felt that the area isn't being used to its full potential.
'It does seem like there is a lot of work that needs to be done to make it more exciting and happening, which I don’t know is getting done,' Ms Pech shared.
The Rocks' situation has been complex, with its rich history and prime location juxtaposed against the challenges of modern urban development and economic pressures.
The area has attracted both Sydney locals and tourists to its cobblestone streets and heritage buildings.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure already responded to the concerns regarding the Rocks’ situation.
According to the spokesperson, the government already has the Rocks Revitalisation Strategy, which could change the area.
‘A range of heritage and capital projects have been delivered, including a new roof on the western wing of the Argyle Stores building and an expansion of public amenities on Nurses Walk,’ the spokesperson shared.
‘Work is underway on design development for George Street North, which will deliver significant precinct uplift to one of Sydney’s most important public spaces.’
Despite these efforts, the question remains: will these initiatives be enough to reinvigorate the Rocks and preserve its status as a Sydney icon?
The community's response to the Argyle's closure suggested that more needs to be done to support local businesses and maintain the area's vibrancy.
Do you have any memories with the Rocks during your travels? What do you think about these developments? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
From community hubs to restaurants with decades of service under its belts, these closures marked the end of an era for their respective communities.
A historic area nestled in one of the country’s bustling districts is facing an uncertain future.
This development sparked major concerns among local business owners, who fear that the district is on the brink of becoming a 'dead zone'.
Sydney’s the Rocks face uncertainty as one of its most iconic tenants, the Argyle nightclub, announced its closure after 17 years of operations.
The Rocks has been a bustling hub of nightlife, culture, and history.
However, the nightclub's departure could indicate broader issues affecting the area.
The Rocks had charming heritage buildings, which attracted both visitors and locals. Image Credit: Google Maps
These issues include the rising costs of living and increasing rent prices, which drive businesses and customers away.
Crystal Gallery owner Maria Hair has been in the Rocks for 37 years.
Yet, she expressed her worries about the area and its future.
‘If I got paid a dollar for everyone who said, “Oh where is this shop? Where is that shop?’ I would probably be wealthy by now, because there is a lot that has gone,’ Ms Hair shared in an interview.
‘It’s lonely. It’s sad not having a lot around now.’
Artist and gallery owner Shazia Imran echoed her fellow tenant’s sentiment.
Ms Imran also pointed out that the Rocks have struggled with its upkeep since the COVID-19 pandemic, along with lack of support for local commerce during the said period.
‘I’m really sad to see businesses going. The government needs to do something to give us support. I am definitely worried about the future,’ Ms Imran said.
The Argyle’s closure and the Mercantile Hotel’s renovations added to the people’s concerns.
Local and the Rocks employee Kat Pech felt that the area isn't being used to its full potential.
'It does seem like there is a lot of work that needs to be done to make it more exciting and happening, which I don’t know is getting done,' Ms Pech shared.
The Rocks' situation has been complex, with its rich history and prime location juxtaposed against the challenges of modern urban development and economic pressures.
The area has attracted both Sydney locals and tourists to its cobblestone streets and heritage buildings.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure already responded to the concerns regarding the Rocks’ situation.
According to the spokesperson, the government already has the Rocks Revitalisation Strategy, which could change the area.
‘A range of heritage and capital projects have been delivered, including a new roof on the western wing of the Argyle Stores building and an expansion of public amenities on Nurses Walk,’ the spokesperson shared.
‘Work is underway on design development for George Street North, which will deliver significant precinct uplift to one of Sydney’s most important public spaces.’
Despite these efforts, the question remains: will these initiatives be enough to reinvigorate the Rocks and preserve its status as a Sydney icon?
The community's response to the Argyle's closure suggested that more needs to be done to support local businesses and maintain the area's vibrancy.
