There's no denying the redevelopment of the Myer site hasn't exactly been well-received by Orange residents.
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What could have been pitched as an exciting new phase in the city's retail and hospitality sectors has instead become the subject of hearsay and disappointment over lack of information.
The fact that Myer pulled out of Orange is to be lamented but in reality there's no one to point the finger of blame at. If you are to believe many leading retail analysts the days of large department stores is fast becoming a thing of the past.
Apparently consumers want a more tailored experience that offers them less products sold in bulk and more items suited to their individual tastes and needs.
We also understand there's a national restaurant chain going into the site but you may well hear the details about that in the CWD before you hear it from those managing the site.
Even in metropolitan cities the days of the all-encompassing store are in decline so it's not surprising that Orange has fallen victim to this trend.
While most Orange residents have come to terms with the loss of Myer, many expressed a hope that the site would become home to a new batch of exciting retailers and food outlets.
Instead it's been very difficult to know who and when new tenants would inhabit the building despite the public's ongoing interest.
While there's no doubt commercial sensitivity to consider when confirmed a new tenant, when the time is right, and deals are in place, why not sing it from the rooftops?
Why not build anticipation over the site's eventual reopening?
The Central Western Daily learned of the first new tenants to commit to the site from the development applications for Best & Less and a new car wash, lodged with Orange City Council. Subsequently the Best & Less team was happy to confirm relocation plans.
We also understand there's a national restaurant chain going into the site but you may well hear the details about that in the CWD before you hear it from those managing the site.
We can't help but wonder why this information hasn't been more readily at hand.
Everyone wants to see the old Myer site occupied.
We all want the CBD buzzing with shoppers and diners and we want to be able to spend our money in Orange.
Let's make a pledge to support any retailers and hospitality outlets which are committed to servicing our city and if the developers will let us, let's get excited about this expected boost to the CBD.
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