Central Goldfields Shire has this week installed a new outdoor 'parklet' dining area outside the Daily Dose Café Wine Bar in High Street Maryborough.
The temporary parklet has been made possible with funding from the State Government's Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package aimed at supporting the hospitality industry to rebuild from the economic and social impacts of the pandemic.
The project is also an outcome of the consultation Council undertook with the business community in 2020 as part of the Jump Start program.
The parklet is an extension of the footpath that allows additional space for pedestrians or businesses to use the street.
Central Goldfields Shire Maryborough Ward Cr Wayne Sproull said the trial will allow the Daily Dose Café Wine Bar to extend their outdoor dining by providing an attractive and green space for customers to enjoy.
"Another great part of this project is that all components of the parklet have been purchased or made in our own municipality.
"The planter boxes that form the walls have been made using local timber sourced from Talbot Timbers and made by Daisy Hill resident Ian Kendt. Artificial turf and established trees have been purchased from Crameri Mitre 10, and the smaller plants were purchased through Carramar Nursery. Installation was carried out by Council's Operations team.
"This is a great project that has benefited so many in our local business community – well done to all involved."
Daily Dose Café Wine Bar Owner Jenna Primmer said the parklet was an opportunity for their business to welcome more customers.
"Due to the small interior footprint of our business, pre-covid customer numbers have not been possible.
"The parklet will go some way to counteract that and will also provide the community with a modern outdoor dining option that is in keeping with activity happening in Shires across Victoria."
As a result of the installation of the parklet, the disabled car parking space located at the front of 102 High Street has been relocated one space along - to the front of 104 High Street.
The parklet will be in place for a three-month trial. During the trial period, feedback from neighbouring business owners and the community will determine the longevity of the parklet and appetite for future parklets in Central Goldfields Shire.
Council's Economic Development team is liaising with other local food and drink businesses interested in parklets and footpath dining. Funding is available for a limited time.
Local businesses interested in getting involved can contact Council's Economic Development Officer Brain Gould on 0428 927 806.
