Stores need lifeline

TWO Springwood charities are being forced to close their doors after it was discovered the buildings were in breach of council licensing regulations.

Staff and volunteers from Footprints in Springwood and Vinnies were told late last month they would have to close by the building's developer, who had failed to change their Class 8 Factory Licence to a Class 6 Shop licence under Council regulations.

Footprints in Springwood volunteer Isobel Gray said the closures were a real blow for the community.

"It is a shame because two community shops who have done very well for this area and helped so many people are going," Mrs Gray said.

"We were the cheapest store to purchase clothes, furniture, toys and other household items.

"But I think people are going to find it really hard when we are gone.

"We had so many regular customers who came in to see us two or three times a week.

"I would know them because they would come in and I would have a chat with them."

Mrs Gray, who had been volunteering for the charity organisation for the past five years, said she would really miss the community.

"What I liked most about volunteering here was the friendliness of the staff and customers," she said.

"We were all like one big family."

While Footprints in Springwood closed their doors last week, Vinnies located next door will still operate at least for a while.

Vinnies Gold Coast president Jim Donaldson said they were trying to find an alternative location to trade in Springwood.

"Our Springwood Centre was issued with a Notice to Quit as it was in breach of Council zoning provisions," Mr Donaldson said.

"We are committed to finding an alternative shop location in the Springwood area and have been liaising with the Logan City Council to make this happen.

"We are confident we will find an alternate location and look forward to continuing the Society's service to the community."

Long time customer Roy Smith said he had relied on the service for many years.

"As times have been getting harder and harder, I have started to rely on shops like this," Mr Smith said.

"They always had really great stuff which was useful for so many people.

"I could come in and buy a nice warm jumper for only a couple of dollars."

A Logan City Council spokeswoman said Council hadn't taken action against the building tenants.

"The use of the building is determined by the Building Application for the property," she said.

"In regards to discovering the breach, it was brought to council's attention as a result of the community."