New outdoor dining guidelines unveiled

CAFÉ, restaurant and bar owners will be guided by a new, clearer policy in outdoor dining spaces across the municipality.

Released by the City of Greater Geelong, the updated Outdoor Dining Policy establishes a consistent and efficient approach to applications, permits, positioning, safety measures, design elements, operations and maintenance.

Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the new guidelines support businesses in creating thriving alfresco dining areas.

“Our new Outdoor Dining Policy and guidelines pave the way for vibrant, accessible and safe environments that respect local character, enhance shared spaces and balance the needs of businesses, pedestrians and community.

“They draw on best practice from other councils and cities, while ensuring the approach is local and tailored to our specific needs in the Geelong region.”

Under the new requirements outdoor dining infrastructure must be easily removable for emergency services, umbrellas must withstand winds up to 120 kmh, and tables and chairs must be durable, weather-resistant and designed for outdoor use and more.

Extensive public engagement throughout 2022 and this year helped form the guidelines, including workshops and surveys with traders, emergency services and community members.

The Summer in the Laneways – Little Malop Street Outdoor Dining Trial also provided learnings in the guidelines, testing dining configurations aiming to increase foot traffic and evaluate pedestrian-priority concepts.

Cr Eddy Kontelj said the initiative is one that will lead to a vibrant outdoor dining experience.

“The city has made sure the Outdoor Dining Policy and guidelines reflect local needs and aspirations, and we look forward to seeing more of these areas popping up.

“It is particularly pleasing that the new policy and guidelines support the popular concept of ‘Dining to the Wall’ – referred to in the guidelines as ‘Trading Zone in front of business.”