City of Darwin is seeking the views of local businesses, property owners and developers, including current and future permit holders, on the development of a draft commercial outdoor activities policy and associated guidelines.
City of Darwin has several policies relating to outdoor commercial activities held on City of Darwin land in place, and the revised policy aims to combine these into one policy.
The aim is to simplify the policy process and encourage activation of the city’s outdoor spaces, while maintaining favourable business environments, public access and amenity.
The revised policy and guidelines will support the creation of a strong and vibrant local economy, in line with City of Darwin’s Climate Emergency, Economic Development, Greening, and Movement Strategies.
Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said community feedback would be important in developing a policy and guidelines with a consolidated framework that is easier for local businesses to use.
“We want to understand the current use of our outdoor spaces as well as any improvements that could be made to encourage more activities in public spaces,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“We have a vibrant and colourful city with beautiful outdoor areas which can be activated and used for a variety of opportunities, however it is important that we provide simplified policies and guidelines to support this.
“The commercial use of public land is a great way to engage with the community and can include activities such as outdoor fitness, art classes, music and entertainment, dining and street food and the use of parklets.
“Encouraging innovative ideas and activating outdoor spaces makes Darwin an exciting and attractive place to live, and we look forward to receiving the community’s feedback,” he said.
The draft policy and guidelines will include outdoor dining and licensed premises; retail activities; parklets; street food; busking and street performing and outdoor classes.
The engagement process will run until Monday 8 April 2024.
Feedback received will be taken into consideration in the revised policy, which will be presented to Council for endorsement.
