Hospitality operators now have clear guidelines about how they can make use of footpath and outdoor dining areas.
This week Geelong council replaced its previous policy with a new Outdoor Dining Policy and Guidelines.
As long as sites meet eligibility criteria such as sufficient footpath width and a maximum street speed limit of 50km/h, venue operators can offer outdoor dining spaces with temporary, semi-fixed or fixed furniture.
The guidelines also apply to public spaces such as wharfs and plazas, as well as parking bays outside or adjacent to the business.
Councillor Eddy Kontelj said the changes had widespread support throughout the hospitality industry.
“This gives surety to traders in what they can do, allows them to be able to make investment decisions based on (this) platform,” Cr Kontelj said.
“We’ve seen that there’s been inconsistencies over the last several years, particularly with pop-ups and things of that nature.
“This now, hopefully, addresses all of that… I think we’ve ended up with a good result.”
Cr Kontelj said while outdoor dining was “not a new concept”, the pandemic had created an enthusiasm for alfresco options.
“During COVID was when it really got utilised to its furthest extent,” he said.
“We saw more and more adoption (by) traders… that were testing us further and further in what they could or couldn’t do.
“These guidelines provide a clear and consistent framework for business owners, traders, hospitality operators to be able to make the most of their footprint in terms of outdoor dining.”
