Council rethinks 7-day trading

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Poll

Do we need Sunday trade in Rocky?

This poll ended on 09 June 2010.

Yes, the sooner the better

46%

Yes, but only certain stores

1%

No, it will hurt the little guys

13%

No, Sunday is a day of rest

36%

It really doesn't bother me

1%

This is not a scientific poll. The results reflect only the opinions of those who chose to participate.

MAYOR Brad Carter yesterday conceded that the council had jumped the gun in coming to its position of support for seven-day trading in Rockhampton.

Cr Carter threw the issue back into the spotlight yesterday when he unexpectedly announced the matter would go to the council table again for reconsideration.

In May councillors narrowly voted in favour of supporting the National Retailers Association's push to have all stores and malls in Rockhampton open seven days a week.

“I have taken on board the views expressed by our community and those of my fellow councillors, in particular Cherie Rutherford and Tony Williams who opposed the move,” Cr Carter said.

“Subsequently I will be bringing the matter of seven-day trading back to the Council table for consideration.

“I will be inviting the Retail Traders Association of Queensland (supporters of independent retailers) to present their position to council ensuring that a balanced overview is offered so that councillors can make an informed decision.”

As the issue has divided the community, the Mayor wasn't predicting what the outcome would be at a second vote.

“It could go either way, and we might choose not to put forward a position at all,” he said.

The National Retailers Association made a court application for extended trading hours in Rockhampton with a push from major retail giants.

The retail body's application went before the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission in Brisbane on May 25.

The matter is expected to go before a Rockhampton court on August 13 and 14 and if necessary, another hearing on the matter will take place on September 10 and 11.

If the matter gets the green light, Rockhampton could have seven-day trading by the end of the year.

Have your say. Do you think council is doing the right thing? Send an SMS to 0408 309 261 or leave a comment below.