Queen Victoria Market traders frustrated by $250 million redevelopment plans

Stallholders at the Queen Victoria Market say the $250 million redevelopment plans for the Melbourne icon is bringing down business.

In a report in today’s Herald Sun, traders say business has slumped as much as 20 per cent.

Neil Mitchell: Is it in trouble, and if yes, how do we fix it?

Luke Graczyk, who runs the Eggporium at the market, said it was important to protect the landmark site’s heritage but business was starting to suffer.

“Overall the last few years business has been great,” he said.

“This year in particular we are starting to see it drop off pretty consistently.”

He said the marketing and promotion of the market was “non existent” and customers were confused about the redevelopment.

“We get a lot of people asking if we are actually open,” he said.

He said the market was still vibrant with a great atmosphere, but he was concerned the market’s rich history and heritage would be lost.

“I’m for the renewal, the planned one I am not supportive of,” he said.

“The market has always been a hub and a bit of incubator for small business in Melbourne, I hope we can protect that.”

Neil crossed to program producer Michael Hilder at the market. Shed A was virtually empty.

Click PLAY to hear more on 3AW Mornings