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Footpath Trading Review

Visitors and residents to Cowes will enjoy clearer footpaths in Thompson Avenue, Chapel Street and The Esplanade from 31 May 2007.

By Bass Coast Shire Council - 16th February 2007 - Back to News

As a result of a recent Council decision, no permits allowing footpath trading in designated areas of Cowes will be approved after 31 May. This means that the current footpath merchandising displays will all be removed.

Council’s Community Safety Manager Peter Laydon said the decision came about in response to concerns raised by the community and council officers.

"Back in December 2006, Council asked for a report to be prepared addressing the issues of concern," said Mr Laydon.

"These issues included pedestrian access and safety, clutter on the footpath, general untidy presentation and access to the footpath from on-street parking.

"That report was delivered to Council at the meeting on February 7," continued Mr Laydon.

Mr Laydon confirmed that Council made a number of decisions in response to the report. These included:

• The decision to not approve footpath trading permits in a defined area in Cowes after 31 May 2007
• A commitment to encouraging the development of footpath dining in Cowes
• A decision to review goods on footpath trading in other areas of Bass Coast

Mr Laydon said all affected traders in the Cowes area were being contacted by Council.

"We have sent a letter to the traders explaining the decision and what is required of them," said Mr Laydon.

Mr Laydon said the decision to focus immediately on Cowes was due to concerns raised with Councillors by the community.

"The Phillip Island Councillors indicated they had received a lot of calls from residents who wanted something done to improve the major shopping area in Cowes," said Mr Laydon.

"These concerns were backed up by officer’s reports, which showed there were some serious safety issues emerging as well.

"In peak periods, pedestrians were walking out onto the road and in among parked cars, as the footpaths were so cluttered," said Mr Laydon.

"That’s an obvious safety risk."

Mr Laydon reiterated that while Council were keen to improve the footpath thoroughfares in Cowes, the current decision did not affect al fresco dining in that area.

"I’d like to make it clear that al fresco dining in Thompson Avenue, Chapel Street and The Esplanade in Cowes won’t be affected.

"I also want to reassure traders outside of the designated area of Cowes that this decision does not apply to them," continued Mr Laydon.

"But we will most certainly be seeking their input when we review footpath trading for the other areas of the Shire," Mr Laydon continued.

The review of other areas of the Shire will take place later this year, although dates have yet to be finalised.

"We will certainly be talking with traders and the community in the key areas outside of Cowes, where footpath trading is applicable," said Mr Laydon.

"There will be plenty of opportunity for people to give us their input.

"As soon as the dates are confirmed, we will advise the community.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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