Pilot parklet program begins

Four kerbside car parks at The Beach Hotel in Jan Juc have been transformed as part of the Surf Coast Shire Council’s Parklet Pilot Program.

The program began at 3-9 Stuart Avenue on Friday, January 19, and seeks to activate the streetscape, encourage neighbourhood interactions and make the most of the town.

Mayor Liz Pattison said she looked forward to hearing how the pilot would respond to the community.

“It’s always important not only for The Beach Hotel but for the community and council to know how the pilot is being received,” she said.

“If the feedback is fantastic, that’s when we look at the project on a larger scale and consider introducing similar parklet programs across the Shire.”

Mayor Pattison said the program was part of the council’s plan to support healthy and connected communities.

“Bringing parking spaces alive and transforming them into bustling, busy, and vibrant outdoor dining spaces is a great way to create an atmosphere on the coast,” she said.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing how the pilot goes and Council to continue supporting the local economy by helping facilitate innovative programs like this.”

The Beach Hotel had entered a license agreement that covered amenity, insurance, safety and accessibility requirements and met relevant planning requirements.

The program will run until Monday, April 8, and the local community, businesses, and visitors can provide feedback on the pilot through a two-minute survey at yoursay.surfcoast.vic.gov.au/parklet