Alfresco dining in Little Malop Street is on the council’s agenda as a trial expanding outdoor dining areas on the popular strip begins.
The Summer in the Laneways – Little Malop Street West Outdoor Dining Trial kicked off on Friday (December 6) and will run through summer to a proposed end date of Tuesday, March 11.
The trial gives 14 businesses between Dennys Place and Shorts Place the chance to extend outdoor dining zones further into the street, with automated bollards restricting vehicle access.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj said the trial, which includes a 56-metre section of the street, had received in-principle support from stakeholders.
“We’re excited to take advantage of summer trading and the Christmas period with this new trial that’s aimed at enhancing the laneway’s culture and giving local businesses a boost,” Mayor Kontelj said.
“We look forward to seeing the outcomes of this trial, which is in response to trader’s requests to increase their alfresco areas.”
Deputy Mayor Ron Nelson said the Little Malop West End was a special precinct with delicious food and drink, colourful street art and interesting shops and galleries.
“We recognise that this laneway is distinctive and a real favourite among visitors, and that more can be done for the space to reach its full potential,” Cr Nelson said.
“The City team has an action plan in place to ensure the trial is continually monitored.”
The City will review the trial after its conclusion in March and provide recommendations to councillors on whether the access restrictions should remain in place permanently.
Visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/SSLMSWODT to give feedback on the Little Malop Street West Outdoor Dining Trial.
