The council also cut the amount of money it would provide to the Albury Central traders group and encouraged the two groups to consider a merger of their administrative functions.

Cr Darren Cameron was critical of the chamber and its representation of only about 10 per cent of the city’s 4000 registered businesses.

But Albury Northside board chairman Phil Clements yesterday showed how the chamber would take the criticism in its stride, confirming it would take on board the council feedback and take up the challenge to build its membership.

Mr Clements said the chamber had begun preliminary discussions with Albury Central about working more closely together but any merger was still some time away.

He said the council had a clear view there was common ground between the two organisations and it would actively pursue a partnership.

It’s appropriate Albury Northside has accepted the challenge from council to live within reduced means and build a more sustainable future.