Policy paves way for more outdoor dining

Fraser Coast businesses now have a clear pathway to convert car parking bays into outdoor dining areas with Council adopting a new Parklets Policy and Design Guidelines.

Cr Daniel Sanderson, who has been a passionate advocate for parklets, said the policy and guidelines had been developed to assist eligible hospitality businesses in applying to host a parklet.

“Parklets provide more opportunities for outdoor dining and a place for pedestrians to sit and relax,” he said.

“Parklets can increase foot traffic for businesses, create a sense of place and vibrancy in the community and encourage people to stay longer in an area.

“Transforming a parking space into an inviting area for people to sit, dine and relax while boosting economic activity is a win-win for our community.

“Evidence from across the country suggests parklets successfully activate areas and parklets link into Council’s Corporate Plan commitment to create connected, inclusive communities and spaces.

“We’re aiming to strike the right balance between having parking for cars and providing an ambient and inviting area for diners and pedestrians. More outdoor dining across our region will be a great step forward for our cities and smaller townships to reach their full potential.”

Cr Sara Diana Faraj said that with outdoor dining becoming increasingly popular, businesses now had the opportunity to create their own parklet or trial one, with Council approving a new policy and guidelines.

“The policy outlines the location requirements and responsibilities of the business and Council while the design guidelines provide information on the type of parklet that may be eligible,” she said.

“Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis, with applicants able to receive a five year permit at a cost of $750 per car park per year with specific conditions for installation and use.”

Parklets are currently operating outside Maddigans Seafood on the Hervey Bay Esplanade at Torquay and in front of Toast in Bazaar Street in Maryborough. Bar Soma in Scarness is developing a parklet in front of its business.  

Council also currently has its own parklet outside Maryborough City Hall, which businesses will be able to apply to trial in the near future.

Copies of the Parklets Policy, Design Guidelines and an enquiry form are available on Council’s website at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/parklets