With outdoor dining becoming a necessity for businesses to survive in the COVID-19 pandemic, would you like to see this continue long after the deadly virus is relatively put to bed?
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Maybe even have whole restaurants outside?
Ballarat's future-thinking leaders and business owners discuss the possibilities HERE.
As a result of the article, we have had residents write in to share their thoughts which you can see below.
And you can leave your thoughts at the bottom of the article.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
I think outdoor venues are overdue. I heartily endorse such changes on a permanent basis. My one objection would be suitable parking - bit of a problem in Armstrong Street. There are so many places where it could be done, especially since we all love dining. It would certainly add to the overall atmosphere of Ballarat.
Robyn Jefferson, Lake Gardens.
You only need to look at the success of outdoor dining in Oakleigh to see what is possible. The number of eateries in Armstrong Street already makes it viable. Bring in entertainment for more atmosphere, it would be wonderful. Main obstacle would be Ballarat people's expectation to park right outside - they need to learn to walk.
Rae Pang, Lake Wendouree.
Well, it looks like Al Fresco dining is here to stay and Ballarat has the ideal place for this to take place - in the Bridge Mall, which could easily be modified for this to be successful.
The best part of this would be the abandonment of the road through the mall - I have lived in Ballarat for most of my life and this would be the most ludicrous idea ever proposed by the council. Surely they don't consider that this would improve trade, could they be that out of touch?
A walk through the mall at the moment shows far more people there than in Central Square, perhaps a road through the Central Square may help?
Stan Hudson, Ballarat.
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