City of Melton residents can look forward to greater outdoor dining options, with Melton City Council supporting local restaurants, cafes and pubs to reopen in a safe and sustainable way.
Council has this week launched a streamlined process that will help local hospitality businesses quickly and easily apply for council approvals to develop or expand their outdoor dining areas, as they prepare to reopen once restrictions ease.
Officers will assist business operators with ideas and options for expanding their open-air dining areas and will help with fast-tracking permits and reviewing funding options.
It’s in response to the Victorian Government’s new Outdoor Eating and Entertainment package in which businesses can apply to the Victorian Government for grants of up to $5000 to help them transition to or grow their outdoor dining. The funding can help purchase new outdoor furniture, barriers, heaters, and more.
Melton City Council CEO Kelvin Tori encouraged hospitality businesses to make outdoor dining their focus as a safe and sustainable way to reopen.
“Outdoor dining is going to be an important part of the post-COVID-19 recovery and we’ll support businesses to make the most of the Victorian Government’s new initiative,” Mr Tori said.
“Our new process streamlines assessments so that business owners can concentrate on adapting, thriving and keeping their patrons safe.
“We encourage all eateries in the City of Melton to make open-air dining their focus. Whether you want to add tables to the footpath and use parking space for dining, or you have your own great idea or need some inspiration, we’re here to help.
“As the weather warms up and restrictions ease, we look forward to seeing residents enjoy the variety of new and expanded outdoor dining options that will pop up across our city.”
The State Government’s next step to ease restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne will allow eat-in dining with limits on patron numbers, and encourage a focus on outdoor dining.
To find out about the outdoor dining options for your local hospitality business and start the application process, visit melton.vic.gov.au/outdoordining
