‘It’s killing local business’: Old South businesses voice concerns over latest phase of Wellington Gateway project

The Old South BIA is speaking out as businesses remain affected by Wellington Road BRT construction. CTV’s Bryan Bicknell reports.

London’s Old South Business Association is calling for more help for businesses when it comes to construction of the latest phase of bus rapid transit.

“It’s all directions. It’s killing local businesses, walk-in traffic,” said Forest of Flowers Vice President Kelly Kailis. The Wellington Road flower shop is among a growing number of businesses voicing concerns about phase two of rapid transit construction along Wellington.

Divided into parts A and B, work is now underway on reconstruction of Wellington between Watson and Wilkins streets, running straight through the busy Commissioners and Wellington intersection.

“So, I think they’ll still be able to get into our plaza, but a lot longer to get in, and a lot longer to get out. And if you’re in a rush and you’re just trying to stop for something quick, why would you choose a business in the middle of all this,” said Kailis.

The president of the Old South Business Association, Ian Sterling Leishman, says he’s hoping mistakes won’t be repeated from previous BRT construction loops.

“What’s happened elsewhere, and they’re telling us, ‘Okay you know what, you gotta get on this now before they actually start ripping up the road.’”

Sterling Leishman says the association is calling for better ongoing communication from the city on the project.

“We need to have very good access points, proper entrances and exits. We need to have really clear signage, and we need to have real-time updates. So, the last time we had an update from the city on this was March 15, and we’re two days away from May,” said Sterling Leishman.

The complete Wellington Road Gateway project runs from downtown on the north end to Highway 401 in the south. The six-kilometer stretch will widen Wellington Road, allowing for continuous rapid transit.

A statement from the City of London says, in part:

“Dedicated business relations coordinators are connecting directly with local businesses to provide advance notice about changes, road impacts and to coordinate operational considerations such as deliveries and customer access,” said Manager, Engineering Planning Brian Nourse.

Ward 11 Coun. Skylar Franke says disruption in the short term will pay off in the long run.

“There will be centre-running bus lanes, where it will be bus-only. So, I think you’ll see the best frequency and reliability in our bus infrastructure along Wellington once construction is done. So, every five to 10 minutes there will be a bus coming up and down. I actually think businesses who are smart enough to invest in that area will see a higher return, because there will be more foot traffic, there will be more people,” said Franke.