A campaign to review the City of Ballarat’s current footpath trading is being spearheaded by Ballarat councillor Amy Johnson, with steps already under way for an overhaul of the council’s current footpath trading strategy.

Among the ideas flagged so far is removing annual permit fees for alfresco dining areas and establishing a community consultation campaign encouraging traders to install footpath dining and trading.

There are also calls to review the stringent restrictions on construction of temporary or permanent outdoor dining structures in Ballarat.

As the city’s reputation as a premier foodie city continues to grow, Cr Johnson said there was a need to keep pace with the evolving cosmopolitan vibe of the city.

“As a council we should be encouraging a vibrant atmosphere around our cafes and restaurants, and strongly supporting the social and economic benefits that an increased uptake of footpath-dining options will bring to our streets,” Cr Johnson.

The concept already has the backing of Commerce Ballarat chief executive Jodie Gillett. 

A revival of the council’s footpath policy, she said, had the potential to breathe new life into businesses and create more vibrancy in Ballarat. 

“It would be fabulous for Ballarat,” Ms Gillett said.

She said there has been a gradual progression and emergence of new eateries across the city.

Forge Pizzeria director Tim Matthews said there was a need for more clarity and clearer guidelines for traders seeking to implement this type of dining.

“There needs to be extensive consultation held with traders on the issue to ensure there are clearer regulations in place like there are in Melbourne,” he said.

Mr Matthews recently secured a liquor licence permit for the alfresco dining area and he pays a permit fee of $165 annually, for each table setting he has set up outside the Armstrong Street restaurant.

Mr Matthews said as well as this cost, he also paid extra floor staff to service the area. 

The outdoor settings were custom-made using recycled timber, to reflect the contemporary vibe inside of the eatery. 

Cr Johnson said she hoped to collaborate on the issue with Commerce Ballarat and Ballarat Regional Tourism. 

Once a briefing is held on the issue by the council, a proposal to review the footpath policy would be put forward by Cr Johnson for councillors to vote on.

melissa.cunningham@fairfaxmedia.com.au