Spring is here and spectacular sunshine has returned. So has outdoor dining, with its pluses and minuses.
For diners, cafes, pubs and restaurant owners being outdoor in courtyards, on the lawn and on the street can be lovely. But it can be a nuisance too, particularly when dining and drinking encroaches on footpaths and public open space.
Hotspots in Daylesford include the lawn in front of the Royal Hotel, the footpaths in Vincent Street and Main Road Hepburn Springs.
Council is reviewing its outdoor dining and trading following concerns raised, particularly in relation to the use of the lawn area in front of the Royal Hotel.
The policy regulates temporary or fixed placement of furniture signs, displays other approved items on public land managed by Council. It also includes commercial activities undertaken in or on open spaces and footpaths and the operation of itinerant traders.
Residents have raised concerns about the fairness of the use of public open space for commercial purposes and private benefit, the safety of outdoor dining and drinking in some areas, impacts on accessibility (particularly on footpaths) and the impact of noise, crowding and litter on public amenity.
Council has held a number of drop in sessions in August and early September to discuss the current outdoor policy. The policy is due to be revised in October and November for finalisation by the end of the year.
Further information on the review is on the Council website
