Clock's ticking for cafe over car parking problems

AFTER 28 years in the heart of Northfield's community, a cafe boss is considering rolling down the shutters amid a major new problem for the area.

- STEPHANIE BALLOO

At a time when businesses are already struggling to survive with increased costs, customers were said to be being pushed away by a new parking restriction at the closest car park.

"To be honest it's come to that stage where I'm thinking with everything going up, is it worth it," said Clock Cafe owner, Faram Mobed, known as Frank.

"I was thinking you know: 'Maybe I put the shutters down, I'm 68, I'll retire."

But that's the last resort for Frank, who has hopes the area's parking nightmare can be resolved.

Laying off staff might also be a reality he's faced with as trade continues to suffer.

"Things are getting tough, especially with parking now," he added.

"People are scared to come to Northfield. We've lost a lot of trade and the way things are, instead of employing people, I might have to get rid of a lot of staff.

"It's making it impossible for small businesses like mine to survive."