With COVID-related restrictions ending, the State Government is no longer allowing temporary parklets on Department of Transport roads - including Main Street, Mornington.
We know after feedback from traders and the community that parklets are the main motivator for the closure of Main Street. These are a key part of creating the atmosphere that our community loves. We have therefore decided not to close Main Street this summer.
This ending of restrictions by the State Government means:
- Only long-term parklets will be considered, which would require a long-term change to the road, including the loss of carparks.
- The VGCCC (liquor licensing Vic) will no longer accept temporary changes to liquor licences (red line) areas from 15 December 2022.
- Council would need to consider surrendering car parks for the long term to enable businesses to alter their red line areas into carparks.
- Traders would be required to go through a planning permit process, pay the associated fees/charges and annually renew their licence.
(Note: the above does not impact footpath trading – this continues as normal.)
Council has carefully considered all factors, including community feedback and the impact of the reversion to pre-COVID conditions by the State Government, meaning temporary parklets cannot be installed for the summer period.
We understand some will welcome this news and it will be a disappointment to others.
The feedback we have gathered will help us advocate to the State Government for changes to support our local businesses into the future.
In the meantime, we will be working hard to create a vibrant and enticing atmosphere in Main Street this summer.
We will still have many activities including roving performers, music and decorations to encourage visitors to come, enjoy the street and visit our local businesses.
Quotes attributable to Mayor Councillor Anthony Marsh:
"We are disappointed that due to the State Government reverting to pre-COVID conditions we can't offer our businesses the opportunity to expand into carparks this year."
"Rest assured we will work hard to create a vibrant atmosphere in Main Street this summer to support our local business."
"We will be exploring if and how we could enable long-term parklets into the future. The diverse nature of our townships means one solution may not fit all, so careful consideration will be required."
