IT APPEARS Bowral is losing its boutique atmosphere.
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According to a poll by Southern Highland News, almost 80 per cent of voters believe the town is losing its boutique shop atmosphere.
Bowral has always been known for its unique and quirky shops. As of late, there has been discussion about chain stores making their way into Bowral and as a result, Bowral is losing its quirky stores that made it what it once was.
Of the 128 voters, just 28 said the town was not losing its boutique shop atmosphere.
Many took to Facebook to express their opinion. Some blamed rental prices while others thought chain stores were the reason.
Rather than focussing on the boutique atmosphere, Chris Newman said the town was gaining an empty-shop atmosphere and his comment attracted more than 15 likes.
Steve Cheers said the town was “unfortunately” losing its boutique shop atmosphere and had been for many years now.
Christian Buttigieg said high rental prices were to blame.
“Maybe if the rents weren't so high, non-chain stores would be able to afford to open shop,” he said.
“There's same sized space in Sydney CBD going for the same rental amount as some of the empty Bowral shops.”
Laura Anne McCarthy said some prices at boutiques were exorbitant and not everyone could afford the prices, and this was where chain stores came in handy.
“I like a mixture of chain and quirky stores. Bowral has plenty cute little stores. In fact, the town is full of them. I'm curious to see who thinks the big chains are taking over since there's only really Woolworths, Coles, Aldi, Target and Bing lee?,” she questioned.
Ingrid Loleit said there were chain stores everywhere and was thankful for Dirty Janes.
“Nearly all our clothes stores are chain stores. They're in every department store and shopping centre. The polyester is deafening,” she said.
Chris Pridgeon said the changes were for the worst.
“The problem is that Bowral is no longer the quirky little country town it once was where you could walk down the street and people would say hi, Mr Pridgeon said.
“It is now the latest hot spot for all the would-be if they could-be so-called socialites and an influx of rude arrogant Sydney-siders has turned this once beautiful town into another place of overpriced, over valued false town.”
Ms McCarthy agreed and said the attitude of some in Bowral was atrocious.
“For the most part people are lovely, but I have seen some holier than thou people.”
Lee Astill Pridgeon said Bowral had a very specific clientele.
“In many cases, if you don't appear to fit in, you are not accepted. If it were losing that 'atmosphere', I think it would be a great thing.”
People agreed with her, as the comment attracted more than 20 likes.
What do you think about Bowral’s apparent loss of a boutique atmosphere?
Join the discussion on our Facebook page or send a letter to the editor: jackie.meyers@fairfaxmedia.com.au