What’s Happening
Townsville City Council has approved a new Outdoor Dining and Footpath Activation Policy, simplifying how businesses can use public spaces. The policy, endorsed unanimously at yesterday’s Ordinary Meeting, removes the need for separate permits and insurance paperwork for most operators wanting to trade on footpaths.
Hospitality businesses that meet general safety and access requirements can now set up outdoor dining without additional red tape. Retailers, especially those in the city centre, are also encouraged to display goods on footpaths to attract customers and create a more vibrant streetscape.
Why It Matters
The initiative aims to enrich Townsville’s outdoor lifestyle, boost local business, and revitalise the city centre and The Strand precinct. Acting Mayor Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said Council was committed to making public spaces more engaging.
“As Mr Engwicht pointed out, our city centre has ‘very good bones’ and there are so many steps we can take – some small and simple such as this one – to really enhance and enliven the area,” Cr Greaney said.
She added that Gecko Interiors is a standout example of a business already maximising its footpath space. “Under this new policy, we are inviting and encouraging more of that.”
By the Numbers
• In 2023, Council first introduced free and streamlined outdoor dining processes, which have now been expanded under the new policy.
• The new policy will be reviewed in four years to ensure it continues meeting community and business needs.
• Urban planner David Engwicht made two visits, in March and June, to advise Council on using permission statements to boost activation.
Zoom In
The policy draws on advice from international place-maker David Engwicht, who was invited by the business-led Uptown Group and Council to assess ways to reinvigorate the city centre. His key recommendation – using “permission statements” instead of restrictive permits – inspired Council’s new approach.
Zoom Out
Across Australia, cities are embracing footpath activations to support small business recovery and strengthen community life. Townsville’s policy aligns with this trend, reflecting a broader push for liveable, walkable, and social urban environments.
Local Impact
Hospitality venues on The Strand can now expand outdoor dining while balancing shared community use. “Council is committed to approving the use of the Strand foreshore for outdoor dining in a way that balances community expectations for other uses of the space,” Cr Greaney said.
The Outdoor Dining and Footpath Activation Policy replaces the previous outdoor dining rules and is expected to boost Townsville’s reputation as a leading lifestyle destination for locals and visitors.
What to Look for Next
Council will monitor the activation outcomes and review the policy in four years to ensure it continues to deliver a lively, people-friendly city centre.
