Much-loved local live music venue the Piano Bar is now open for outdoor performances three days a week, after working with the City of Greater Geelong to finalise a proposal for use of Minns Place in the CBD.
The Piano Bar is bringing the laneway to life as an outdoor jazz-themed entertainment space, called 'Laneway Jazz'.
Guests are being entertained with a rotating schedule of free performances, offering local musicians an opportunity to return to the live stage.
A pop-up bar is operating from a vacant building on Minns Place, while patrons are being encouraged to support local business by ordering food from nearby venues.
The City has issued a permit for the laneway activation to operate between midday and 6pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until the end of the 2020, with the Piano Bar planning an initial run of six weeks.
Minns Place remains open for vehicle access at all other times, with removable bollards installed by the City earlier this year offering the ability to efficiently open and close the laneway to traffic.
The laneway has the capacity to host 50 guests seated in line with the Victorian Government's density requirements.
Piano Bar operators are managing the space to ensure compliance with all COVID-19 safety requirements.
Other hospitality businesses hoping to make use of public spaces to expand their outdoor offering are encouraged to work with neighbouring traders and contact the City with their clever and creative ideas.
The Council has waived all outdoor dining fees, and the City's Business Concierge service is available to assist traders through the application process.
