By Molly Magennis
Maribyrnong council is seeking community feedback on whether a pop-up park in Yarraville should remain a permanent fixture.
The pop-up park was established on the south end of Ballarat Street during COVID-19, as a way to help restaurants and cafes manage the challenges of social distancing.
The council is now undertaking community engagement to ascertain the level of support to make the Yarraville parklet a permanent outdoor space.
While the pop-up space has been generally well received so far by both traders and customers, it’s continuation would mean the loss of eight car parking spaces.
If a permanent pop-up park is supported, a portion will remain dedicated recreation space, similar to the pop up park outside the Sun Theatre on the northern end of the street.
Traders who might want to expand their business to continue outdoor dining would need to pay a rental for the area they use, with the associated fees to be outlined in an Outdoor Dining and Trading Policy and guideline that is currently being developed.
While the Victorian government has provided $120,000 for a refresh of the Ballarat Street parklet, council would still need to provide additional funds to support the it’s permanent retention.
Maribyrnong Mayor Anthony Tran said while he knows the community and traders have enjoyed the space, council is keen to gauge the communities “appetite” to retain the parklet, particularly if it will mean the loss of parking spaces and an increase in cars parking in residential streets.
“Council is also conscious of the need to ensure any costs to support continued outdoor dining are appropriately apportioned, recognising our responsibility to ensure fair use of public space and an even playing field for all businesses,” he said.
“There will be separate conversations with our community around this once the draft Policy and guidelines are developed to gauge whether our community feels we have got the balance right.”
Residents should provide their feedback by March 22 via: www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/ballaratst
