Fixed footpath furniture now an option for traders

Published on 03 August 2018

Fixed footpath furniture now an option for traders

Traders can now replace their portable street furniture with permanently fixed tables and benches under a new policy designed to help declutter Colac Otway Shire footpaths.

The Council’s compliance coordinator Graeme Murphy said the initiative also served to make the provision of street furniture easier for businesses and encourage more activation of the footpath trading zone.

“It was identified that plastic and light timber furniture can move in the wind, potentially damage other property and become a tripping hazard for pedestrians,” he said.

“This change to our Street Furniture Policy means benches and tables that meet our approved style, standards and colour can be bolted to the footpath and remain in place 24/7.

“This decision was made following many enquiries from business owners who wanted to fix tables and benches to the footpath, rather than move furniture in and out of their premises every morning and night.”

Mr Murphy said businesses with existing street furniture permits, and any new applicants, needed to apply for a Works Within a Road Reserve Permit and be approved before any works could be started.

“There will be a one-off fee for this of $163.53, in addition to the annual permit fee for street furniture due on September 1 each year,” he said.

“We have developed some guidelines to assist with the purchasing of approved furniture and businesses can apply via our website.

“Opting to purchase furniture consistent with the guidelines will allow quick approval,” he said.

Mr Murphy stressed the option to fix furniture to the footpath was only optional and traders were welcome to continue with any current portable furniture use that had a valid permit.

For more information please contact the compliance unit on 5232 9400.