Maitland City Council is implementing a new outdoor dining policy to support cafés and restaurants that plan to expand onto public footpaths.
Local businesses can now access the application, which has been reworked so it’s easier to follow, completely free of charge.
The council is also currently taking part in a statewide trial that allows existing NSW bars, pubs and clubs to apply for outdoor dining without the need for a development application.
Venues must still operate according to all required approvals and licence conditions, but the trial hopes to encourage Maitland businesses by making the application process simpler.
The council’s coordinator city and visitor economy Caroline Booth said these updates had been made with the pandemic in mind.
“Outdoor dining can be a great way to provide more space for customers and ensure a COVID safe environment,” she said.
“We are eager to work with businesses right across Maitland.”
While the council hopes to support the Greater Maitland area with these changes, it will initially be concentrating on The Levee, broader Central Maitland, and Morpeth.
Ms Booth explained that this focus will make existing dining precincts, which are already well-known within the community, even more appealing to venue patrons.
The new plan will make it quicker and easier to apply for outdoor dining in Maitland.
Applicants can expect faster processing times and support from a Service NSW business concierge, which has been accelerated thanks to a strong partnership between the council and the NSW Government.
The trial for clubs and pubs to expand their trading onto public spaces is available until 31 October 2021, and local venues are being encouraged to apply.
Applications are made via Service NSW.
