Local eateries to trial outdoor dining decks

Published on 17 June 2022

Following a competitive expression of interest process, two Launceston food businesses have been selected to take part in a trial of portable outdoor dining decks.

In May, the City of Launceston advertised for local hospitality businesses to take part in a 12-month trial of the dining decks through an EOI process.

The trial, which was supported by the State Government through a $50,000 'Ready for Business' grants program, will see two decks constructed to provide outdoor dining facilities where it has not been previously possible, or at least restricted.

Inside Café, on Paterson Street, and the Schnitty Bar, on Invermay Road, are the two successful trial partner businesses.

Once the dining decks are manufactured in July, they will be installed in front of the two businesses by September.

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said the 12-month trial would provide Council with data on usage, generated economic activity, street vibrancy, and identify issues for future parklet projects in the CBD.

"While there are currently more than 60 businesses offering outdoor dining options in Launceston, there are some areas where outdoor dining has not previously been possible due to a lack of footpath space," Mayor van Zetten said.

"The portable dining deck project addresses this by allowing a deck to be located in an on-street parking space.

"While Launceston boasts a wide array of businesses with outdoor dining — including cafes, restaurants and takeaway shops — there are opportunities for us to boost economic activity and vibrancy through reimagining the way we use infrastructure like parking spaces into the future.

"We hope that this trial in two very difficult locations will provide insights into how to support hospitality businesses to deliver on a more vibrant city for all."