During the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary outdoor dining was set up in activity centres.

Council recently conducted a consultation process, where overwhelmingly both public and traders said they would like to see enhanced outdoor dining return in some capacity.

We heard from close to 1,000 people when developing the trial policy, including 400 phone calls with Monash residents and 100 with Monash based traders. Thank you to everyone who took the time to provide feedback.

Council considered the draft policy 27 September 2022 and whilst some of this policy is 'non-negotiable' so that it can be implemented alongside other relative policies (footpath trading and access policy) we now ask to hear from traders for their opinions.

We are seeking feedback from all businesses within Activity Centres to gather your views on these enhanced outdoor dining areas before making any decisions on how to proceed, if at all.

Council's trial Parklets on Roads Policy is place for the warmer summer months for 2022-23.

The trial policy allows hospitality businesses with existing outdoor dining permits to activate car parking spaces where road conditions allow, creating more options for venues. Council officers will review safety issues and parking availability when assessing applications, the trial policy also ensures uniform consistency around the quality of parklets across Monash.

Importantly, fees are in line with Council’s existing footpath training program.

Businesses interested in being part of the trial Parklets on Roads Polic can contact our team by email: outdoordining@monash.vic.gov.au or 9518 3449, who will provide you with specific safety and design criteria to inform your decision.

Seeking further feedback on the trial policy. Tell us via the form below about your views on the policy for outdoor dining. The consultation closes at 4pm on Friday 30 December 2022.

Based on this feedback and the outcomes of the trial period, Council will then decide whether this policy (with any changes) will become permanent, providing hospitality businesses with the opportunity to trade (where appropriate) in car spaces for 6 or 12-month periods.