Local diners can now spend more time in the great outdoors thanks to the installation of two dining decks outside two popular Launceston eateries.
In June, the City of Launceston announced that Inside Cafe on Paterson Street and the Schnitty Bar on Invermay Road had been selected to participate in a 12-month trial of the portable outdoor decks following a competitive expression of interest process.
The trial, which is supported by the State Government through a $50,000 ‘Ready for Business’ grant, will see the two decks provide outdoor dining facilities where it had not been previously possible, or at least highly restricted.
The decks were manufactured by Victorian company Events 720 and were originally due to arrive in Launceston in September.
However, the decks arrived four weeks’ early and much to the delight of the two businesses, were installed on Friday just in time for what was a very busy weekend trading.
Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten congratulated the two businesses and said he hopes the decks provide a much-needed boost in diners over the coming 12 months.
“While there are currently more than 60 businesses offering outdoor dining options in Launceston, there are some areas where outdoor dining has not previously been possible due to a lack of footpath space,” Mayor van Zetten said.
“These portable dining decks will address for both of these businesses by allowing a deck to be located in an on-street parking space right at their front door.
“While Launceston boasts a wide array of businesses with outdoor dining — including cafes, restaurants and takeaway shops — there are opportunities for us to boost economic activity and vibrancy through reimagining the way we use infrastructure and public spaces into the future.
“We hope that this trial in two quite different and difficult locations will provide insights into how we can support hospitality businesses to deliver on a more vibrant city for everyone.
“I would also like to thank the State Government for their support through this grant, which made all of this possible.”
