Townsville City Council is working to create an even better Townsville Eats later this month.
The inaugural event was a stunning success, with approximately 10,000 people flocking to Flinders Street to get a taste of the city's best flavours from both bricks-and-mortar businesses and food trucks.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said Council had listened to the feedback from the first event and is committed to delivering an even better event at the end of this month.
"There will be more food vendors and Council staff are working closely with nearby local restaurants to encourage them to be part of the next Townsville Eats," Cr Hill said.
"The theme will be Italian so we want any local business that can bring a flavour of Italy to put their hand up to be part of the event.
"There will also be changes to the layout to ensure there are shorter ques and a more efficient use of the space available."
Deputy Mayor Les Walker said Council staff will soon be commencing discussions with CBD property owners to discover the potential for pop ups in vacant shopfronts to be integrated into future events.
"Council wants to encourage property owners and local small businesses to think innovatively about what can be achieved in vacant shopfronts," Cr Walker said.
"By working collaboratively together, we believe greater activity and commercial opportunities can be realised in our CBD."
Local Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said Council was committed to helping CBD traders maximise the benefit from the next Townsville Eats.
"Importantly, local traders reported big increases in sales when they stayed open on Friday night for Townsville Eats," Cr Greaney said.
"Council is delivering project and events – whether its Townsville Eats, Flinders Lane or the soon-to-be-open CBD Bus Hub – to encourage locals and visitors into our city heart."
