Fast track to outdoor dining
Last week, the state government announced it had streamlined planning approvals to make it easier for existing venues to set up outdoor dining areas. The Minister for Planning Richard Wynne announced existing pubs, restaurants, cafes and other food...
Last week, the state government announced it had streamlined planning approvals to make it easier for existing venues to set up outdoor dining areas.
The Minister for Planning Richard Wynne announced existing pubs, restaurants, cafes and other food and drink venues can use existing outdoor spaces, as well as nearby parks and public land to accommodate and serve patrons without the need for a planning permit.
Last month, Bass Coast Shire Council said it was working with local businesses to expand outdoor dining in the region and create “active open spaces”.
Teresa Mahood, Bass Coast Shire Council’s Acting Manager Investment and Visitor Economy said active open space could mean anything from “pop up parks” to road closures to allow for more outdoor dining or using existing open space to cater for picnics and takeaway.
She said overseas examples included road closures, with outdoor dining precincts set up on roads, as well as restaurants taking over parking spaces or nearby vacant blocks.
Teresa said the latest announcement from the state government would help businesses get the new arrangements in place quickly.
Council has started an Expression of Interest (EOI) process for local businesses interested in expanding their outdoor dining options. So far about 10 businesses across the shire have submitted an EOI.
Teresa said examples included working with neighbouring businesses to expand the area for footpath trading, using a car park area for outdoor dining, or setting up dining areas on closed roads.
Areas across the shire had reacted differently to the push for increased outdoor dining.
“Not every business wants to come outside,” she said, stating there were a range of considerations, including staff numbers, accessibility and the need to create a Covid-safe environment.
“To serve an area that isn’t really near their business, it’s a bigger commitment on behalf of the business.”
The great outdoors?
Some businesses had already embraced the move and created new outdoor dining areas, such as the Workmen’s Hotel in Wonthaggi.
Several businesses in San Remo had already expressed interest in creating “parklets” to expand their outdoor dining capacity, and council has been approached to have more picnic tables on the grassed foreshore area.
Geoff Moed, from the newly formed Phillip Island Business Network said getting the outdoor dining right “could be a game-changer” for the atmosphere in Cowes.
Teresa confirmed that Olive Justice Place had been identified as a potential “active space” in Cowes, but said no general agreement had been reached with traders in terms of street closures or other outdoor dining opportunities.
Inverloch traders are close to formalising a plan for street closures in the town.
Teresa said council was working closely with business owners to try and find the best way to activate public space in each area.
“It could mean increased outdoor seating or creating Covid circles in parks,” she explained.
“We’re happy to explore anything, but it has to be feasible from different perspectives. One business may want to close the road, but the one next door might think it’s detrimental.
“We’re trying to get the balance right.”
Regional hospitality businesses are now able to expand to up to 70 patrons outside.
The new planning exemptions should help businesses to use their own land and expand onto adjoining land, allowing them to serve more patrons, while still adhering to distancing guidelines.
The new provisions also mean businesses don’t need to obtain planning permits for construction of temporary buildings, the provision of car parking, and the sale and consumption of liquor – subject to conditions.
The planning permit exemptions will apply while Victoria remains under a State of Emergency, and for 12 months after the State of Emergency has been lifted.
Businesses covered by the exemptions include restaurants, cafes, bars, hotels, function and reception centres and wineries.
Teresa said any business keen to active outdoor dining spaces should contact council.
“You can fill in a form online, or just call us.”
