Shops close as Helensburgh puts up For Lease sign

Commercial vacancies in Helensburgh are reaching critical levels with two more businesses closing down at the end of last month.

Local institution Roy’s Fruit Shop finally succumbed to the loss of business caused by the opening of Bi-Lo in October while the operators of Woody’s Pre-loved Bargains moved their store closer to home.

This follows the closure of the IGA store in September, the inability to lease the new shops next to Bi-Lo due to power supply problems and continuing vacancies for the arcade in Walker Street. Roy’s Fruit Shop shut its doors on June 30 after 27 years in the town.

Proprietor Roy Denaro did not wished to be interviewed however he and brother Jim gave the Helensburgh & District News a statement which read: “Thank you to all our loyal customers, past staff and friends.

“We appreciate your patronage over the years and especially over the last six months.

“Unfortunately after 27 years, the time has come to close the doors and say good bye.”

It is well known the business suffered following the opening of Bi-Lo. Roy’s Fruit Shop was not able to compete with the buying power of the large supermarket chain and customers were lured away by cheaper prices and a one-stop shopping experience.

Roy, who was born behind the Centennial Hotel, started the business with his father in 1977 and most recently ran it with brother Jim.

Despite being disappointed by the closure, Roy was philosophical.

“They say when one door closes another one opens,” he said. “I’d be happy if it didn’t open for a few years.”

Woody’s managers Allan and Heidi Smith are relocating their store to Appin, closer to their Campbelltown home.

Allan said the move would cut their overheads, including rent and petrol.

“It’s got a bit quieter,” said Allan who has operated the store with his wife for the past 18 months.

“And it’s not just us that’s been quiet.”

LJ Hooker principal Simon Beaufils said nothing would change in Helensburgh until either Wollongong Council or a developer made a significant investment in the town.

“Over the years there have been applications to redevelop the Ampol Service Station which is the main entrance to the town,” he said. “But Council has denied some good development opportunities there.”

Simon said no new developments were planned and the owners of the existing vacant buildings had no interest in redeveloping. “There’s nothing of good quality and Council hasn’t helped. A larger population is necessary to make businesses viable in the area and this will not happen until more land is released for development. Rents are still reasonable so it’s not a price thing,” he said. “It’s the viability of the area."