Two popular bars on Union Street in central Geelong can now welcome guests outdoors under a new arrangement put in place by the City of Greater Geelong.
The street's narrow footpath had, until now, meant hospitality businesses were unable to place tables and chairs in front of their venues without impacting safe pedestrian access.
As a solution, the City has converted parking spaces along the street to 'no standing zones' after 4pm from Monday to Friday and all day on Saturday and Sunday.
This will see parking continue to be available during regular business hours, while making the footpath available for outdoor seating during peak hospitality periods.
Temporary outdoor dining permits have been granted to the Union Street Wine Bar and Valhalla Taproom, with the City providing removable white picket fencing to create a barrier between the outdoor dining spaces and the road.
Safe pedestrian access will be maintained via the no standing zones.
The set-up gives Valhalla Taproom capacity for 10 outdoor guests spread across three tables, and Union Street Wine Bar room for eight guests on two separate tables.
Other hospitality venues on Union Street have also been invited to apply for an outdoor dining permit.
The City's support of increased outdoor dining is in response to the Victorian Government's strategy to encourage outdoor activity wherever possible as part of the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
Businesses wishing to apply for an outdoor dining permit can call 5272 5272 or click here.
Under current government restrictions, hospitality venues are limited to 40 guests indoors but can seat up to 70 outdoors with physical distancing in place.
City of Greater Geelong CEO Martin Cutter:
We've found a good balance for Union Street of supporting businesses to offer outdoor seating without compromising pedestrian and vehicle access, and while maintaining on-street parking at the times it's most needed.It's been an extremely challenging year for hospitality venues across the region and we will continue to work with those wanting to expand their outdoor capacity. This will become even more important as the summer months approach and regional Victoria re-opens to visitors from Melbourne.
