Article content continued

However, as a number of reporters broadcast their “stand-ups” on Sparks and camera technicians have to get their equipment onto the road, CBC allowed about 100 employees to access the Sparks door.

But there’s a catch. Those chosen few have to sign a new security contract that stipulates, among other things, that those with special permission are “forbidden to use the Sparks Street access to go to neighbouring stores.”

Alexandra Fortier, manager of media relations at CBC, wrote in an emailed statement that the corporation takes “the security of our employees very seriously. This is why, after a careful assessment, we decided that the Sparks Street doors of our building will be used for operational purposes only by a limited number of our employees.

“As part of our overall security measures, we also asked the employees who have access to this door to only use this exit for work and operational purposes.”

Sparks Street merchants appeared stunned by the news. Sure, CBC workers are free to walk around the block from Queen to Sparks, but changes to the walking patterns of 350 people could affect their businesses.

“It may be not something our merchants would necessarily notice during the summertime when there’s a number of tourists in town,” said McHale of possible changes in foot traffic. “However in the wintertime, when times are leaner around here, certainly 350 people not being able to access the street certainly could hurt, whether it’s to buy a chocolate bar or go for lunch.