Stonnington's mobile parklet is on the move again. The inviting outdoor space, previously located in South Yarra, has been supporting local business over the festive season – giving visitors to the area an extra outdoor space to sit and relax in.
Originally used as part of a community engagement series 'Street Talk' last year, where it was relocated nine times within seven precincts, the parklet was a great way for Stonnington staff to meet and talk to the community and invite them to have a conversation.
With a fresh new look, the parklet has now moved to outside Thirty Mill Café on Milton Parade in Malvern, where it will remain for the next couple of months.
Thirty Mill Café is trialling the parklet and so far, enjoying seeing their customers relaxing with a cuppa and bite to eat in the novel outdoor space.
Michael, manager of Thirty Mill Café, said that the parklet is a massive plus, and his customers are staying longer because of it.
"Our favourite feature is that the parklet means there are no cars next to tables, so our customers stay longer as they feel safer and can enjoy the atmosphere.
"Also, our per-person spend has increased because our customers are ordering a second round of coffee.
"Overall, the look and feel and the amenity it provides creates a better streetscape and its always the first to fill up – people choose to sit in the parklet before they take up our footpath tables!
"We've even had to consider increasing staff to allow us to keep up with more customers, and the time that the café is busy has shifted with the parklet," he said.
Stonnington's Mobile Parklet Program, a trial for local businesses interested in testing outdoor dining, offers the parklet at no cost to a business for 8-12 weeks. If the business finds the parklet successful, they are encouraged to apply for a roadside dining permit and continue trading within the outdoor space.
