REOPENING the Central Business District (CBD) mall to traffic is back on the agenda, with two leaders supporting the push.

New England North West Business Chamber regional director Di Gray wants a U-turn on Armidale's CBD mall, arguing reopening the precinct to traffic would boost passing trade.

Reinstating a road in Maitland Mall had reinvigorated retail there, Ms Gray said.

"Maitland now has a shared pedestrian area and most shops are open and occupied," she told the Leader .

"The difference between Armidale and Maitland is, there's a road going through it."

Ms Gray applauded Armidale Regional Council for installing an open-air gallery in the East Mall to breathe new life into the strip.

The illuminated displays, which rotate regularly and feature the work of local artists, are a

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