THE first businesses to expand to outdoor dining through council’s Extended Outdoor Dining Program have begun to serve customers.
The program saw Frankston Council fast-track permits for cafes and restaurants to serve customers outside. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions have meant a surge in the popularity of outdoor dining.
Rosie’s Kitchen Pantry applied for the permit, and has now begun serving customers. Proprietor Rosie Major said “while business remained somewhat steady throughout lockdown through takeaways, since the creation of the outdoor dining customers have been coming back in droves, which is great for business. We have also been able to put on more staff.”
Council installed concrete safety barriers between the road and outside dining area at the venue. It also added colour to the barriers and dining parklet bays. The creation of the local parklets to serve customers is being funded through a $500,000 state government grant.
“I absolutely love the bright colours the council have painted the safety barriers. They really enhance the vibe and fun atmosphere we strive to deliver to our customers every day,” Ms Major said.
For more information, visit frankston.vic.gov.au/Business/Extended_Outdoor_Dining_Program