Council will support local food, beverage, entertainment, arts and cultural businesses to temporarily expand their footprint to new outdoor spaces giving customers more opportunities to dine outdoors as part of the NSW Government’s Alfresco Restart Package.
At the last Ordinary Meeting held in November, Council endorsed the roll out of a local package which will see relevant fees waived temporarily for businesses across the City to expand their outdoor dining services.
Shoalhaven businesses will still need to apply for a permit but will not be charged the fee for an extension on footpaths until 30 June 2022. Permits will also be available for outdoor dining in certain parks and outdoor spaces until 18 April 2022. This will provide businesses with the opportunity to trial a new outdoor dining area before applying for a longer term permit. This same fee waiver and process is in place for merchandising displays and A-board signage within the council footpath area.
Council’s Director City Futures Gordon Clark said that the Council’s support of these initiatives will go a long way in helping local businesses to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and enjoy a COVID safe summer.
“The initiative is designed to help Shoalhaven businesses get back on their feet and make the most of the expected busy summer trade following what has been a particularly challenging year.
“With restrictions easing, we hope that this new initiative will provide a much-needed boost to their bottom line. This initiative is open to businesses in Shoalhaven to expand their footprint to new outdoor space giving customers more opportunities to dine outdoors”, Mr Clark said.
“Since the start of the COVID pandemic, Council has remained committed to supporting local businesses and has already been in touch with Shoalhaven Business Chambers to brief them on this initiative.”, Mr Clark stated.
Applications will need to provide a layout plan and comply with the NSW Government and Council guidelines. Businesses may also need to apply to change their liquor licence with Liquor and Gaming NSW.
