A growing push to reopen Nicholson Street through Bairnsdale’s mall precinct has gained momentum, with an online and in-person petition attracting more than 3000 signatures from residents and business owners.
The campaign, led by the “Open the Mall” group, cites ongoing concerns about anti-
social behaviour, safety, and traffic congestion as key reasons for reopening the street to
through traffic.
Business owner Anthony Scott said traders and the wider community had grown increasingly anxious about incidents in and around the mall, including harassment, abuse, fights inside shops, and property damage — such as a rock being thrown through a window.
“There’s fear and anxiety every day,” he said. “We’re ringing 000, but police are underfunded, and we’ve repeatedly asked East Gippsland Shire Council for help. There’s been no immediate solution.”
The petition argues that reopening Nicholson Street would disperse traffic more evenly, reduce congestion on surrounding streets such as Bailey Street and the Nicholson–Service Street intersections, improve access to local shops, and support the CBD’s economy. It also calls on the council to conduct a comprehensive impact study and broader community consultation.
Traders have been clear in their opposition to further development of the mall in its current form. Instead, they advocate for reopening the road, creating additional car parking, and integrating vehicle and pedestrian access to make the area safer and more welcoming for shoppers.
Trevor Hancock, president of the Bairnsdale Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the community had not been widely consulted on the location or scope of a proposed major arts and entertainment precinct in the CBD. He noted that the Shire is spending funds on the former Woolworths building while awaiting State or Federal grants, but there is no certainty around development timelines.
Mr Hancock said a combined approach using private, public, and community contributions, similar to successful arts precinct developments in Melbourne, could deliver a functional and widely supported outcome for Bairnsdale.
The petition can be signed at local businesses including Bairnsdale Lotto and Gifts, Coopers Travel, Complete Care Pharmacy, and online.
