Outdoor dining parklets to return

SURF Coast hospitality businesses are invited to apply for a parklet space to turn kerbside parking into vibrant community spaces.

At its July meeting, the Surf Coast Shire council resolved to adopt outdoor dining parklet guidelines and incorporate them into the Local Law.

It follows a successful Parklet Pilot at Jan Juc’s The Beach Hotel in 2023-24.

Parklets use on-street parking zones adjacent to hospitality businesses and turn them into outdoor public seating for street dining, or into green spaces.

Shire mayor Liz Pattison said the program aimed to foster an accessible and inclusive community.

“Initially it was a Fresh Air Dining Program, launched to support hospitality businesses navigating density limit restrictions during the pandemic.

“It had such a positive impact in Jan Juc, that community members campaigned for it to be introduced permanently.

“I loved the sense of community the Jan Juc parklet created, and I look forward to seeing more pop up.”

Cr Pattison said the parklet program brought plenty of economic and environmental benefits with it.

“Extended outdoor dining has the potential to increase the time spent in the area, subsequent spend, financial viability of the business, and may encourage more slow tourism where visitors linger.

“I encourage any interested local hospitality businesses to submit an EOI for a parklet so our business team can check their eligibility.”

Strict requirements are in place for businesses in terms of location, design, setbacks, insurance, waste management and maintenance.

For more informatinon, and to submit an expression of interest, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/parkletpermit