Residents and local business owners on Eastgate Street have expressed growing concerns that the installation of gates is transforming the once-bustling area into a “ghost town.” Many say the closure of the popular Liquid nightclub, combined with restricted access due to the gates, has significantly reduced foot traffic and vehicle movement, leaving the street eerily quiet.
Community members argue that the restricted access has deterred visitors and potential customers, leading to a decline in business revenue and an overall sense of abandonment. One local shop owner remarked, “Since the Liquid nightclub shut its doors, there’s hardly anyone around. With the gates now in place, it’s like the life has been drained from the street.”
Adding to the debate is the revelation of the costs incurred by taxpayers to install and maintain the gates. The expense has sparked questions about the value and effectiveness of this measure, especially given the apparent negative impact on the area’s vibrancy.
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While some defend the gates as necessary for safety and security, many call for a reassessment of their use to revive Eastgate Street’s appeal and prevent it from becoming permanently deserted.