Local cafes and restaurants will benefit from a Council decision to make it easier to obtain an outdoor dining license.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the decision supported Council’s open for business objectives.
“This decision is a perfect example of how we are removing red tape for businesses, supporting the local economy and making it easier to do business in the Redlands,” she said.
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“The Redlands has fantastic open spaces and a great climate, so making it easier for businesses to take advantage of this fact makes perfect sense.”
Council compliance and regulatory services spokesperson Cr Wendy Boglary said today’s decision would complement the city’s open spaces.
“Over the years Council has made a significant investment in public places and this decision will make it easier for local businesses to take advantage of these public spaces through outdoor dining,” she said.
“It is terrific for small business and the entire community.”
Cr Boglary said currently outdoor dining was regulated through both the Redlands Planning Scheme and Local Laws, but today’s decision would simplify this regulation.
“It means the regulatory burden will be reduced with food businesses no longer needing development approval for outdoor dining,” she said.
“It will also save local businesses money with it currently costing more than $1000 to apply for a Material Change of Use for outdoor dining and $443 a year for a license.
“Council’s environmental health teams will continue to monitor outdoor dining to ensure a high quality of health and public safety is maintained.”
The changes will be made through Council’s amendments to the Redlands Planning Scheme expected to be adopted at the end of the financial year.
