Idea to transform vacant shops

Murwillumbah District Business Chamber president Toni Zuschke.

MURWILLUMBAH District Business Chamber has formed a committee dedicated to finding state government funding for art spaces in the CBD.

The chamber met yesterday morning to discuss the possibility of turning vacant shop fronts into hubs for artists.

The idea has taken off in Lismore with the creation of the Art in the Heart concept, building creative enterprises in empty spaces to liven up the town and rejuvenate the retail sector.

Chamber president Toni Zuschke said it was time to act, with 32 of 213 Murwillumbah shop fronts already empty.

She said the region was full of artists who needed to come out of the woodwork and refresh the streets of Murwillumbah with the help of the chamber, landlords and the Tweed Shire Council.

Ideally, more activity in the town centre would attract more foot traffic, creating a better environment for retail and inspiring more businesses to set up shop and thrive.

After lengthy discussion a task force was created to get the "Pop Up Murwillumbah" campaign off the ground.

This task force so far includes Lismore MP Thomas George, Tweed Mayor Barry Longland, Destination Tweed CEO Bill Tatchell, the chamber and several members of the Creative industries.

Solicitors, real estate agents and building owners are encouraged to join the task force which will have its first meeting to create an action plan within the next few weeks.

Contact the chamber if you can assist at natascha@murwillumbahchamber.com.au.