Why are these lovers standing here?
They’re stranded here. The rain caught us all.
Once upon a time, the next building along was like its brothers and sisters on this street: Victorian architecture with an ‘Australian-style’ awning, as Jan Gehl puts it.
But it was demolished and replaced with something else. Without an awning.
Now there is no contiguous pedestrian network. This effectively strands us, which can sometimes be lovely and cosy, but really means that your precinct is less desirable for customers and new businesses. It’s ‘functionality’ is impaired.
Understandably, these ‘so-called defects’ also make a place unique. But that’s the wrong type of unique.
We want the ‘unique’ that’s created by independent retailers and place management solutions which are locally distinct.
Heavy rainfall is a permanent deterrant for many who have alternative locations to consider. These can be other streets in your district, other districts, or (no!) indoor shopping centres.
We limit our strolling distance because of these impediments. This directly affects the quality of your community because businesses and economies are out of reach of people.
Profitable hours of operation are diminished per year, as is foot traffic.
A safe, comfortable and interesting pedestrian network is necessary.
Above: The Record Finder, 87 High Street West End, Fremantle, Australia
