WHITTLESEA council will help local restaurants and cafes expand their outdoor dining capabilities to prepare for warmer weather as soon as COVID-19 restrictions allow.
The State Government has encouraged food service businesses to provide more options for outdoor eating in line with its roadmap out of lockdown.
Footpath dining outside of businesses has been acknowledged as a potential safer way for restaurants and cafes to reopen during the pandemic.
Applications are now open for footpath trading zone permits and extensions of existing zones in the City of Whittlesea, with associated fees waived until September next year.
Grants of $5000 under the State Government’s $58 million Outdoor Dining and Entertainment Package will also open for applications soon.
Eligible businesses can apply to pay for practical items such as umbrellas, outdoor furniture, screens and other equipment.
Grants can also assist businesses with training, marketing, and other costs associated with adapting new or expanding existing outdoor dining or entertainment.
More information on getting a footpath permit or extending a permit zone is available at whittlesea.vic.gov.au/business
Information on the State Government grants program is available at business.vic.gov.au
