The Riverside Business Chamber has become the latest organisation to voice its sup port for The New
Heart of Ryde.
The New Heart of Ryde is the new v ision for the Ryde Civic Centre, delivering a four -fold increase in
community facilities without the introduction of any residential development on the site.
Riverside Business Chamber President, Tony Abboud, said the pro posal meets the needs of the entire
City of Ryde community.
“In my 39 years of being involved in the local business community, The New Heart of Ryde is the best
proposal I have seen for the Ryde Civic Centre site,” Mr Abboud said.
“In terms of the needs of the business community, it ticks all the boxes. Businesses will be able to hold
conferences and stage large -scale events such as the Local Business Awards. At present the Local
Business Awards sells out with some nominees unable to attend the event simp ly because we do not have
a large enough venue in the City.
“There is also the opportunity for The New Heart of Ryde to be a one -stop shop for the community, with
dedicated Council offices and space for other government services that will have synergies w ith the retail
businesses at Top Ryde. It really will be a true civic hub.”
City of Ryde Mayor, Clr Jerome Laxale, said the initial reception to The New Heart of Ryde has been
overwhelmingly positive.
“The New Heart of Ryde is one of the most exciting projects undertaken by the City of Ryde. It will be built
for the community and owned by the community, without any residential development,” Clr Laxale said.
“It has won the support of local residents, community groups such as the Ryde Eisteddfod and now the
local business community.
“Given the importance of this project, it is essential that all members of the community take part in the
formal consultation that is currently underway. All feedback subm itted during this period will help shape the
final design and report that will be submitted to Council later in the year.”
Members of the public have until Sunday 25 August to provide feedback. Submissions can be made.
