89% of the Bass Coast community support continued outdoor dining in the form of parklets, a new report from Bass Coast Shire Council reveals.
The report collates feedback from over 500 businesses and 100 community members on the program, which Council received from months of community consultation. 14% of respondents also shared positive responses on further developments they’d like to see post-pandemic.
Key issues Council heard from the consultation include enhanced vibrancy, plays to Bass Coast’s strengths and covid safety, in addition to parking challenges and business inequality.
Parklets are a means for business to safely extend their outdoor trading area beyond the footpath. It usually involves the temporary use of on street parking spaces for outdoor dining and trader use.
Council introduced parklets in 2020 as an initiative to create welcoming communal spaces for outdoor dining and trading. The parklets supported businesses to extend their seating areas while density limits were in place and allowed our community to dine in a COVID-safe manner.
In developing new guidelines and fees for the parklets, Council aims to balance the needs of residents, business owners and visitors while facilitating economic development through enhanced streetscape vibrancy, increased dwell time and more access to dining experiences.
Some of the feedback Council received include:
“Parklets help to make San Remo a destination not just somewhere to pass through on the way to the island.” -Business owner
“I think these parklets have been a true positive to come out of Covid and have made our region much more attractive for both tourists and locals to enjoy.” – Community member
“Great asset to the community! We love sitting in these spaces and enjoying a few drinks and some food. It adds a great vibe to the town.” – Community member
