QVB plans laid out in open

The management company behind Sydney inner city retail centre QVB has denied claims retailers were not informed of proposed changes to the building.
In an article published in the Sydney Morning Herald late last month, several tenants of the centre - of which at least half constitute fashion - said they were unaware owners Ipoh planned to give the building a $26 million makeover.
Changes mooted in the overhaul - the first restoration at the site since 1986 - include new escalators, shop fronts, signage, lighting, paint finishes, carpet and balustrades.
A development application for the 108-year-old building - home to such brands as Guess, Esprit, Sportscraft, Witchery and Review - has been lodged with the Sydney of City Council.
However, Ipoh communications manager John Klein denied some retailers assertions they had not heard of the updated plans.
He said his company had undertaken extensive consultation with tenants with a public forum held by the council at which several QVB retailers attended.
"Retailers have been given updates at monthly meetings with management and via newsletters. In addition, individual meetings have been conducted with many retailers to discuss specific issues. Focus groups have also been conducted with an independent research company," he said.
Klein said the changes were necessary to ensure they were compliant under the Building Code of Australia and to help improve "vertical transportation".
Works would be managed to minimise disruption to the tenants, he said.
"Retailers in general embrace change and acknowledge that things must evolve to remain relevant to the target market. The changes are all positive and will enhance retail trading."
It is expected the plans will be reviewed at the council's December 4 meeting. If approved, work at the site is due to be completed within 18 months.