By Alesha Capone
Applications are open for local businesses to apply for a free and fast-tracked Footpath Trading permit.
The permits, which also waives fees for eligible businesses until August 31 next year, are part of efforts to help Wyndham’s traders recover from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The council is aiming to review all permit applications received within five business days.
One of the goals of the upgraded Footpath Trading Permits is to allow businesses to start footpath trading or increase the number of customers they can serve, while adhering to state government guidelines on social distancing.
Businesses which already have a Footpath Trading Permit can also apply for an extension to their existing restrictions – for example, to put out additional furniture such as chairs, tables, displays of goods or A-frame signs.
The council will allow businesses in shopping strips, town centres and activity centres, which are already using their footpath trading space to full capacity, to apply for a Temporary Commercial Use of Outdoor Space Permit.
These permits may include applications for businesses to use council-managed areas such as streets, car parks and open space in town centres and shopping centres, but not parks or reserves.
The council is aiming to review Temporary Commercial Use of Outdoor Space Permit applications within 10 business days of receiving a submission.
Businesses will need public liability insurance if they apply for any of the permits, along with a COVID-Safe plan.
Businesses will also need to apply for a liquor licence for their new outdoor trading area or apply to vary an existing licence for extended areas.
