Ordeal a ‘disaster’ for Burger Johnny

THE Belcher’s Corner ordeal has been a “complete disaster”, a business owner says.

Burger Johnny owner Tom Grigg bought the Ryrie St business, a tenant of the historic building, just months ago.

“I only took over the business five months ago, I was looking to take it to the next level and make something of it,” Mr Grigg, 25, said. “(The situation has) been completely devastating and disastrous.

“It’s not just the tenants … it’s the owners that have lost a fair amount of money … as well as other little businesses that were located within it, basically their livelihood has been pulled from underneath them.”

The building’s tenants — some who are also owner-occupiers — have not been allowed to trade in the building since late July.

Burger Johnny has not found a new home.

“The relocation fees will be approximately $30,000 to $40,000, which we can’t afford, so we’re stuck between a rock and a hard place with that,” Mr Grigg said. He is currently battling his insurer to pay him out for losses and relocation fees.

Mr Grigg said if he was paid out it would be all right but, if not, it would be disastrous.

He said he was “definitely” keen to relocate the business.

The Addy broke the news of the order to demolish the heritage building by December 31 to Mr Grigg yesterday.

“(The order would be) expected … it was just a matter of time,” Mr Grigg said.