Footpath trading fees to be considered

As part of its response to COVID-19, Bass Coast Shire Council waived footpath trading fees for businesses, for the 2019/20 financial year.

At the September Council Meeting, Councillors unanimously voted to consider a report outlining the options and costs for the waiving of footpath trading fees for the 2021/22 financial year at the October Council Meeting.

Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari said that businesses are doing it tough following prolonged restrictions and regular lockdowns.

“It is important for us to consider ways that we can support our local businesses during these uncertain times,” Cr Tessari said.

“The report that will be presented to the October Council Meeting will also consider options to further support outdoor dining, during the upcoming summer period.

“Outdoor dining initiatives, particularly coming into summer, will remain part of Council’s response to managing the impacts of COVID-19 on local businesses.

“We activated outdoor dining spaces across the Shire last summer with much success, providing businesses with the opportunity to continue to trade during tightened restrictions.

“Some spaces are still in place in Inverloch, Cowes and San Remo, which are currently being reviewed in consultation with impacted businesses.”

The outdoor dining initiative has been supported by the State Government’s Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package.

“We will continue to work with businesses through our Business Support and Community Safety teams on outdoor dining opportunities across the municipality,” Cr Tessari said.

“We will also continue to seek funding from the State Government to support further street activation and outdoor dining activities over the Summer period,” Cr Tessari concluded.

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