Photo: LDR / Adam BurnsFurther funding of nearly $200,000, to help reduce the disruption of the Ashburton CBD upgrades, is a possible godsend for struggling retailers. The Ashburton District Council confirmed additional funding to keep multiple intersections open, as construction continues on a multimillion town centre revitalisation. Retailers, struggling due to restricted access to large portions of the CBD, sought further support at a council public forum a fortnight ago. Council "unanimously" agreed to additional funding to help the businesses which have been impacted, but details were initially kept under wraps. "Although it will cost a little more, we felt that allowing access through the East Street intersections rather than closing them for weeks at a time is a much better option for our community."

Source: Otago Daily Times April 24, 2021 02:15 UTC