Goya Dmytryshchak
A Seddon restaurateur said he “was on his knees begging” Maribyrnong council for help after two of its officers threatened to call police over a marquee.
In an emotional Facebook post, Eamon Walmsley from Charles & Gamon bar and kitchen said that in April, after gaining planning permission from the council, he erected an igloo marquee to weatherproof the venue for winter.
“On Friday, two representatives of Maribyrnong council came to C&G and informed us the marquee was a permanent structure and had to be removed,” he posted.
“In the most breathtaking confrontation I have had in my professional life, I was informed if the structure was not down in seven days the police would be called.”
Mr Walmsley said that without the marquee, the restaurant couldn’t meet patron density limits when it reopened after the fourth COVID-19 lockdown is lifted.
” … I don’t know how many more times I can get up from the mat guys,” he posted.
“I have emailed everyone from the mayor on down … City of Maribyrnong did a goddamn post on their social media about how lovely we all were.
“So, I need help, please.
“I’m not writing this in anger, but hope.
“… I am on my knees begging @cityofmaribyrnong please please help me.
“I’ve got nothing left.”
After being contacted by Star Weekly, Maribyrnong mayor Michael Clarke apologised and said he was confident the matter could be resolved.
“We’re working with Charles & Gamon to resolve the safety issue that has arisen with the erection of the large marquee that’s been installed to support outdoor dining at the venue,” he said.
“We apologise for any distress to the proprietor but the marquee, as erected, inadvertently created a public safety risk for patrons by blocking access out of the restaurant in the event of an emergency.
“Throughout the week, council has worked with the owner to ensure the correct emergency exit guidelines can be met.
“More importantly, council is committed to work with the owner on an ongoing basis to reach a workable solution.”
