A walk around the CBD block is starting to feel a little like the Lismore of old, especially Keen Street, and the positive news is more shops will be returning or opening very soon.

Last Wednesday, Lismore City Council released an audit of the number of CBD businesses that have reopened.

The results were 38.3% in August 2022 to 60% by the end of January. Keen Street was the standout CBD block street with 67% occupancy.

Of course, there are still boards up around the block that indicate some vacancies for a while but when you look at what is to come, it fills you with optimism for the rest of 2023:

• Eight Brothers Barber Shop - Cnr Magellan and Molesworth Street

• Raine & Horne Real Estate - Strand Arcade, Molesworth Street

Lismore Embroidery & Apparel - moving back into their Keen Street shop

• Brightway Lighting - corner Keen and Woodlark Street

• Instyle Sleepcentre - Woodlark Street

• Best and Less - Keen Street
• Korean Street Fusion - has been at the Lismore Farmers Market but will be opening next to Fundies.

Hooked On Brewing is opening a shop in Lismore with a focus on Brewing & Barbecuing. Location is unsure.

Rumour Mill: The Gollan Hotel is set to reopen as retail shops on the ground floor. Definitely not confirmed but interesting if true.

A shortage of trades has slowed the progress for some business owners but this is the reality for Lismore and the Northern Rivers for quite a few years to come.

Every reopened or new business is a reason to smile for the rest of the year.