The Eden Magnet published the design and artist’s impression for the proposed $1.5 million Imlay Street beautification project last week. The next day we hit the streets, asking Eden business owners and locals what they thought of the new plans.

For last week's story on the street's new facelift and design, click here. 

Virginia Barker, Eden

I think the improvements will help the tourism industry, especially with tourists visiting from the cruise ships. It will be nice to be proud of how Eden looks.

Jasmine Davis, Eden

I think the step-out areas on the road-side is a great safety aspect of the new design. Right now we have to peek through parked cars before we can cross the road, so there’s always a risk of being hit by a car.

Con Castrissios, Eden

It’s a major improvement on what we’ve got now, and once it’s completed it will definitely enhance the streetscape. I think the impact on visitors will be positive; it will certainly improve first impressions of the town.

Val Bobbins, Eden

It’s a disgrace the way it is now, so I think what they are about to do is wonderful. I’ve lived here all my life, and reckon it’s about time they spent money on Eden rather than Merimbula. Merimbula has pretty pavements and things, but Eden has stayed a mess for years.

Kevin Turnbull, Eden

If the work is still going into summer, I’m worried about disruption to business. And although I like the garden beds, I hope they’re maintained. If they fall into disrepair, they’ll end up being a detraction.

Rob Brown, Eden

I support anything that advances and promotes the main street. The sooner it gets done, the better. But it doesn’t solve the parking problem. Shop owners and staff need to stop taking the premium parking spots on the street, especially over the busy period.

Henry Lennon, Eden

The idea for new gardens and trees is great, but if they’re going to do that then we also need more police in town at night, especially after 10pm. As soon as the pub’s shut and people don’t have anything to do, they vandalise. The new plants will be ripped out before we know it.