A “LIGHT touch, streamlined permit system” for extended outdoor trading is part of Mornington Peninsula Shire’s strategy to help businesses get back on their feet now that COVID-19 restrictions have eased.
Features include extending footpath space and adding parklets – which repurpose car parking spaces outside shopfronts – to make more space for diners.
CEO John Baker said the shire was also working with the business community to identify key shopping strips that could be opened up to pedestrians and diners.
“We want to provide more options to enable people to support our local economy and enjoy all the peninsula has to offer,” he said.
Mr Baker said the shire welcomed the easing of restrictions.
“Now it’s time for us as a community to focus on how we can support our local businesses by engaging local service providers and shopping locally, wherever possible,” he said.
“The shire’s focus is firmly on getting our local businesses trading again. This is our number one priority. We want to make it as easy as possible for local businesses to trade in a way that will maximise turnover while remaining COVID-safe.”
The easing of restrictions means there are no restrictions on reasons to leave the house, but you must remain within 25 kilometres of home (with exceptions, including care for childminding, end of life, resting place, real estate).
Those who can work from home must continue to work from home. If you can’t work from home, you do not need a permit to attend work. However, you still need a permit to travel between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria for work or study.
Up to 10 people may gather outdoors from any number of households, or more than 10 if all are from the same household. Children under 12 months of age are not included in the limit.
Up to two adults and their dependents may visit one home at a time, with visits limited to one a day, from within a 25 kilometre radius of home. Masks are recommended to be worn and a record kept.
Households will be restricted to one daily visiting event, meaning those who receive visitors cannot also visit someone else that day.
Cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars and food courts can reopen. Restrictions apply. Retail shops can reopen, and markets can reopen.
Library branches remain open for click and collect (no appointment necessary). Deliveries are available for vulnerable community members. Community halls will remain closed (with some exceptions).
Tips are open for all waste but will close 12-12.30pm to allow a change of staff and lunch breaks. All waste vouchers for the 2019/20 financial year have been extended until 31 December.
Mount Martha Public Golf Course and the Crib Point Pool are open (subject to restrictions) as are skate parks and playgrounds.
Shire offices remain closed with customer service available by phone or online.
Details on current restrictions: mornpen.vic.gov.au/outdoordining
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 3 November 2020
