The building went up last year amid much controversy as residents bemoaned its position on the old Gosford Public School site and its design, which many claimed was just plain ugly.
But with 600 ATO employees already at their desks and more set to follow later this year, businesses in and around the CBD are largely positive about the impact of having so many extra regular workers in Gosford.
It’s no surprise that Robertson federal Liberal MP Lucky Wicks, who championed the development from its inception, has announced an uplift in the CBD “being felt by businesses, local families and the wider community”.
Ms Wicks said “coffee shop economics’, based on the simple premise that each of the 600 employees would be grabbing their morning coffee, and maybe a few coffees on a busy day, in Gosford and not in Sydney or Newcastle, created more confidence and more jobs.
Gosford-Erina Chamber of Commerce President, Rod Dever agrees.
“We have noticed a real increase in foot traffic throughout Gosford and lots of coffee shops and cafes are seeing up to a 30 per cent increase in their business,” Mr Dever said.
“In the retail and hospitality sectors engagement is good and we are seeing more people enjoying the waterfront and Kibble Park.
“The major problem we have seen is that parking spots in the city are filling up quickly each morning, but Central Coast Council is working on short and long-term solutions to the parking problem.
“With several other constructions underway or soon to be underway it’s a case of short-term pain for long-term gain.
“It’s wonderful to see mixed retail and commercial developments popping up – it will all help to activate the city and we are grateful to the risk takers, like John Singleton, who got things moving.”
Imperial Centre manager Deb Warwick said there was an increase in foot traffic through the centre, with food outlets benefitting mostly, but said an increased demand for parking was creating some problems.
“Development always brings challenges, but they are not insurmountable,” Ms Warwick said.
Central Coast Leagues Club CEO Peter Blacker said the injection of jobs at the ATO had been a positive thing for the city.
“We are seeing lots of new faces, not only in the club, but all-around town,” Mr Blacker said. “It’s great for the whole city.”
Jan Gairn of Ray White, Gosford, said greater career opportunities were making Gosford and surrounds a more vibrant region, with the few people travelling from Sydney to work at the ATO likely to look at relocating.
