Support grows for social food delivery parking ban in North Hobart

Despite proving a boon to their businesses, North Hobart restaurateurs are backing a proposed ban on social food delivery drivers from parking at the front of their premises.

DESPITE proving a boon to their businesses, North Hobart restaurateurs are backing a proposed ban on food delivery drivers from parking at the front of their premises.

The Hobart City Council is reviewing what actions it can take to address the concerns of some traders in North Hobart and across the city over the growth of social media-based food delivery services such as Uber Eats and Deliveroo.

They involve customers ordering food online or on a smart phone app with a driver coming to collect and deliver.

There are almost 20 restaurants along the popular North Hobart strip that use food delivery services.

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Burger Haus operator Aaron Brazendale, who uses Uber Eats, said it was a catch-22 situation for business owners because the market had driven them to adopt Uber Eats.

“We have had to put on several employees because we are busier with deliveries,” he said.

“But many of the drivers are sitting on the main strip waiting for the notification for pick-up.”

Burger Haus restaurant manager Chelsea Nuss, sous chef Shane Roockley and waitress Chloe Paynter in North Hobart. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

Dede Indonesian & Thai Cuisine owner Nan Zhang and Roaring Grill’s Tony Kent both support a ban on drivers in public spaces.

“I’m dead against Uber Eats drivers parking in public spaces,” Mr Kent said.

Amici owner Louie Sorgi said even if tougher restrictions were put in place they would only work if they were enforced.

An Uber Eats driver, who wished to remain anonymous, warned a ban would hinder drivers leading to longer delivery times.

The driver also argued the four dedicated parking spots for food delivery services at Burnett St were often taken up by members of the public.

North Hobart Traders Association president John Kelly said it was unfair to suggest businesses were bringing the problem on themselves by using the services.

“Uber Eats is the biggest show in town and if the businesses aren’t part of that they miss out,” he said.

“The businesses are not saying, and nor am I, that these platforms should not be delivering food.

“We are saying they are taking up all the prime parking spaces and that is hurting businesses.”