Sydney is attempting to bring back diners to the city with the launch of a new outdoor dining initiative.
Existing liquor licensing regulations have been amended, allowing venues to expand their licence boundaries in just three days instead of the usual 51.
Venues can also apply for al fresco licences without planning approval.
The Rocks will be the first area to move outdoors, with venues able to seat customers outside from 16 October. From 1 November, venues across the Sydney CBD will follow.
Outdoor dining will be trialed for a 12-month period, and a number of venues in The Rocks have already signed on including The Glenmore and The Australian Heritage Hotel.
“We need to band together, the businesses in Sydney’s CBD need us back,” said Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello.
There are hopes a successful launch could influence other areas of Sydney, with hospitality businesses keen to increase sales for the remainder of 2020.
Image credit: Hidden City Secrets
