Chapel Street: Hopes for ‘historic’ summer of outdoor dining with State Government support
Melbourne’s most famous shopping strip has welcomed a State Government cash splash on outdoor dining, which a traders group hopes injects new life into the precinct this summer.
Inner East
Don't miss out on the headlines from Inner East. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Melbourne’s most famous shopping strip could have a “historic” summer following the State Government’s outdoor dining cash boost.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced on Monday a $87.5 million package for councils outside the CBD to make the transition to outdoor dining.
The package could include cash for traders to buy tables, plastic screens, umbrellas and other items.
Chapel Street Precinct general manager Chrissie Maus said she felt more optimistic about traders’ fortunes this summer following the government’s announcement.
“Summer in Chapel St will present historic dining options that will surprise and delight our visitors,” she said.
“I feel the Premier’s focus has rightfully taken into account business and the economy, which was lacking prior.”
But Ms Maus warned that outdoor trading might not be “the magic wand” for some businesses.
“The costs to set it up compared with the returns may not make it worth it,” she said.
“I hope businesses really look at the economic benefit before they go and potentially spend time and money on an option that might not be best suited to their business.”
The precinct has asked the public to submit their ideas to Stonnington Council on how to boost activity on Chapel St in summer.
Last week, the Leader revealed Lucky Penny owner Matt Lanigan’s bold pitch to create a summer outdoor trading festival, which would see the entire strip closed to all traffic except trams on weekends.
Mr Lanigan said the Government’s package was a positive sign, but further collaboration would be required to make outdoor trading work for businesses.
“At the moment it’s just words, we need to see that funds are available and this concept is practicable in its approach,” he said.
The council’s chief executive, Jacqui Weatherill, welcomed the Government’s financial support and said it would “review how it can be best used”.
“October 26 and the warmer months to come present an opportunity to trial initiatives that may revolutionise how Victorians dine for the long term,” she said.
“Stonnington has a strong existing footpath trading program and we are fast tracking opportunities for businesses to adapt and trade outdoors more than they already do.”
Ms Weatherill encouraged local businesses looking to extend outdoor trading to contact the council.
MORE: SHOPPING CENTRE OFFERS STRUGGLERS FREE MEALS
HUTS MARKET SITE TO BE DEMOLISHED