IN breaking news, businesses in Fremantle’s West End say the city council has left them “frustrated and alienated” by cancelling a popular street market held on the same weekend as the city’s International Street Arts Festival.
The Westend Weekender has been held for eight years (with a Covid break) but an email from the Artisan Store sent to the Herald late Thursday says the city claimed “time, resources and budget” as being behind the cancellation.
But the email, from store owner Rowena Mitchell and attributed to its “team”, said the Weekender was run and managed by the local business and required little funding or time from the council.
“The eagerly anticipated yearly occasion is of great importance to numerous small business owners located on High Street, as it serves as a platform for showcasing their products and services, amplifying foot traffic, and cultivating an exuberant festival atmosphere.
“This event also fosters a sense of community while preserving local culture.
In its absence, these small businesses would lose out on the invaluable opportunity to connect with potential customers and generate essential revenue,” the email said.
It said there was little discussion with local businesses before the decision was made, which would also impact on the success of the festival.
“The Westend Weekender is a pivotal component of the festival, as numerous attendees from last year’s event attested that the absence of the market on the streets would have rendered it lacklustre. Its presence not only enhances the festival but also supports the growth and development of the surrounding area.”
Pitches
The email says that without the markets, and because no busker pitches have been designated in the West End, there’ll be little to encourage visitors to push through the crowds that gather around the National Hotel to see what’s beyond.
“The National Hotel’s sprawling presence at the corner of High Street and Market Street poses a significant hindrance to foot traffic – ultimately transforming both High Street and the West End into a desolate ghost town.”
The email says a council officer said they might fund a future market in a different venue, but that would be “detached and remote” from the business itself.
“It is important to note that this may result in reduced foot traffic and patronage for those local businesses.
“The council’s decision-making process can be perplexing at times.
“The council has once again dismantled a longstanding initiative aimed at supporting business within the community.”
The email urged West End businesses to lobby the council to overturn the cancellation.
by STEVE GRANT