1. Rationale

A busy active footpath area has a positive impact on the viability of retail businesses and the vitality of city life. Carefully promoted and controlled footpath trading and other activities such as dining entertainment trading and performances can energize and stimulate the street environment.

Geelong has many wide streets and footpaths which are suitable for a range of activities. However where space on a footpath is sometimes limited more creative solutions may be required to accommodate tables chairs people and signs without compromising access or safety.

In pursuing active vibrant safe and accessible footpath trading activities this Policy is consistent with the direction of Council’s Central Geelong Revitalisation Strategies Strategic Planning direction and the Footpath & Designated Road Trading and Activity Guidelines.

This may include the occupation of a kerbside parking bay on a non government road for alfresco dining purposes only which is provided with adequate fixtures to ensure safety to all members of the public and road users.

This would only apply in instances where businesses were unable to comply with footpath access requirements but does not apply to existing traders who are able to comply with the existing Footpath Trading Policy. Such traders will not be permitted to extend their activities on to the road. All businesses are given an equal opportunity to conduct Alfresco dining.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to set out the requirements for the conduct of trading and other activities on Council’s footpaths in accordance with Council’s General Local Law 2005 (as amended).

The policy is supported by the Footpath Trading and Activity Guidelines which together aim to;

• Promote economic development;

• Safely establish exciting and vibrant streetscapes through a diverse range of activities;

• Promote aesthetically pleasing footpath trading infrastructure in accordance with Urban Design guidelines; and

• Enhance the shopping dining or observers experience for visitors who engage in Footpath Trading and other footpath activities.

• Enable the safe emergence of a laneway culture for laneways and minor roads under council control and declared sections of designated roads for the purpose of Alfresco Dining only. 

3. Scope

The Policy applies throughout the municipality on footpaths and designated roads under Co