Your chance to review outdoor dining

FEEDBACK is being sought on measures put in place by the City of Greater Bendigo to support outdoor dining as part of the hospitality sector’s recovery, following last year’s second wave of COVID-19.

Those measures included closing the north-east side of Bull Street between Pall Mall and Hargreaves Street, as well as installing just over 90 barriers around town to allow venues to expand tables into footpaths and on-street carparks.

In addition, a $500,000 State Government grant went towards infrastructure like temporary raised platforms, ramps and lighting, with those installations due to last until June.

The municipality’s director of strategy and growth Bernie O’Sullivan said 51 traders were able to expand their outdoor dining areas and that all fees had been waived.

“We are starting a comprehensive evaluation and consultation process and the community is invited to have their say on the outdoor dining initiative and its overall impact,” he said.

“We are seeking feedback on various aspects of the outdoor dining initiative, including the public space infrastructure, whether the extended outdoor dining has contributed to the vibrancy of the city and suburbs, and to see if community members took up the opportunity to dine outside.

“The findings from this consultation process will help inform us if there are new opportunities or long-term measures that could permanently activate some areas both inside and outside of the city centre.

“I encourage the community to let us know their thoughts and experiences and whether or not it is something that should continue in Greater Bendigo.”

There’s a separate survey for members of the hospitality sector and also focus groups planned for those businesses.

To take part in the wider community feedback process, visit letstalkgreaterbendigo.com.au/outdoordining.