Tara Murray
Outdoor dining is set to be on the menu this summer across Whittlesea.
Businesses across the state have been given the go-ahead to expand their floorspace outdoors in a COVID-safe environment, to attract more customers.
Businesses can apply for up to $5000 under the council’s business assistance grants to help them to adapt their businesses to increase their viability during COVID-19 and the new COVID-19 normal.
Council administrator Bruce Billson is a champion for bringing indoor dining outdoors, spilling onto footpaths and even into car parks.
“It is great to see what is being achieved in big global cities like London and New York that have transformed outdoor spaces into amazing alfresco cafes and restaurants so these businesses can continue serving customers at a time when social distancing rules are likely to be around for a while yet,” he said.
“We can’t wait to activate our outdoor spaces in a similar way here in the City of Whittlesea and to do what we can to support our hospitality businesses at this challenging time.”
The state government has also announced grants for businesses and councils to make outdoor dining safe, practical and a reality across the state this summer as part of its $87.5 million outdoor eating and entertainment package.
“Transforming outdoor spaces into seated dining areas is a very exciting concept that needed a partnership approach between the state government, councils and businesses to bring it alive,” Mr Billson said.
Council is also making significant upgrades to streetscapes in areas like Thomastown and Lalor to make them more vibrant and attractive.
For information on setting up outdoor dining, email business@whittlesea.vic.gov.au or call 9217 2278.
