“UNGRATEFUL AND extremely disappointing” is how Byron Shire Council’s General Manager, Ken Gainger, is describing a small business owner who was allowed to set up shop in a prime site in Byron Bay’s CBD for 12 months rent-free.
“The owner of a solar, charged electric bike hire company approached Council in August 2016, asking us, as a show of support for start-up businesses, to allow him to operate from a prominent location in the Byron Bay CBD such as a car park,” Mr Gainger said.
“Council agreed Sunshine Cycles could operate from a relocatable pod on prime commercial land at the First Sun Caravan Park on a six month, rent-free licence on a trial arrangement,” he said.
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The lease expired in June 2017 and Sunshine Cycles, until 24 December, had occupied the site on a temporary arrangement.
The owner was informed on 23 November 2017 that his licence would be ending on 24 December and that he needs to leave the site and remove his equipment by 17 January 2018.
“Council genuinely tried to help a small business and it is so disappointing that Luke Young is not only continuing to operate his business, but he has also instigated legal action,” Mr Gainger said.
“We have been extremely generous in our dealings with Mr Young and he was fully aware of all arrangements when he accepted the lease in 2016.
“Council staff have been open and transparent in all communication and I suggest any other small businesses in Byron Bay would have been extremely grateful for the opportunity that was afforded to Mr Young,” Mr Gainger said.
There is nothing better for a New business than free rent, i was paying $160 a week for a small shop in Jonson St back in 1981. That Bike chap has definitely had a fair go from Council, take it on the chin whoever you are, that is basically a gift from all us ratepayers.