A grocery store operating out of a garage in Wright has ignited a heated debate among residents over its legitimacy and the traffic it generates on a quiet residential street. The business, Kerala Spices Indian Groceries, has been at the center of this controversy since it began operations in 2023.
While some locals describe the store as a “disruption to the community,” the owner insists it is a “legal home-based business.” The store’s presence has reportedly led to traffic congestion on Porter Street, with customers frequently visiting the premises.
Community Concerns and Business Defense
The store, located on Porter Street, is run from a single-car garage filled with racks of food items and refrigerators. The only advertisement for the business is an A-shaped board on the street, yet it has attracted a steady stream of customers.
Local resident Prasad Abeyrathne, a general practitioner, expressed his frustration, stating, “This business is now destroying the everyday life of its neighbours; it runs from 6:30am to 11:00pm. Throughout the day, there is a continuous flow of traffic to the shop. Interestingly, the owner and the customers of this shop park their vehicles wherever they like.”
“This business is now destroying the everyday life of its neighbours; it runs from 6:30am to 11:00pm.” – Prasad Abeyrathne
Dr. Abeyrathne also highlighted safety concerns, noting that parked vehicles, including large trucks unloading goods, pose a risk to families and children using the footpath.
In response, Lincy Mathew, who owns and operates the grocery store with her partner, refuted the claims, labeling them as “false and baseless.” She emphasized that their business is legal, with an ABN and council approval, and noted that heavy vehicles only occasionally deliver goods in the late evening.
Regulatory Framework and Compliance
The operation of a business from a residential garage raises questions about compliance with local regulations. The ACT government requires food businesses to be registered with the Health Protection Service and to adhere to safe food handling guidelines before commencing operations.
Officials from ACT Health inspect premises to ensure compliance with the Food Standards Code and the Food Act 2021. A registration certificate, which must be displayed at the business location, is issued upon meeting all requirements.
However, Kerala Spices Indian Groceries reportedly lacks a visible registration certificate and conducts transactions via phone. This has prompted some residents to escalate the matter to the ACT Chief Minister, citing safety concerns from heavy vehicle deliveries.
“A valid licence from ACT Health is mandatory if you want to be a food retailer.” – Anonymous Woden Business Owner
According to an ACT government spokesperson, businesses handling or selling food must apply for registration under the Food Act. Home-based businesses must also comply with the Planning (Exempt Development) Regulation 2023, which limits business area usage and vehicle arrivals.
Future Implications and Community Impact
The ongoing dispute between Kerala Spices Indian Groceries and local residents highlights the challenges of balancing business interests with community harmony. As authorities continue to assess the situation, the outcome could set a precedent for similar home-based businesses in residential areas.
Residents like Dr. Abeyrathne remain hopeful for a resolution that addresses their concerns without stifling local entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, business owners like Mrs. Mathew advocate for clearer guidelines and support for home-based ventures.
The situation underscores the importance of regulatory clarity and community engagement in fostering environments where businesses and residents can coexist peacefully. As the debate unfolds, the Wright community watches closely, anticipating the next steps from local authorities.
