Docklands to get new kiosks
03 May 2011
Docklands can expect to see flower and fruit kiosks, food vans, and newspaper kiosks following a new council street activity policy.
The council says it wants new forms of street activity to create connections between Docklands and the CBD. It will be investigating Harbour Esplanade and Victoria Harbour near Collins St as potential sites for flower and fruit kiosks.
But they say the kiosks won’t be installed unless they are commercially viable.
A council spokesperson said the City of Melbourne would consult with key affected stakeholders and carry out a feasibility study.
“Pending the approval and allocation of capital funds, the City of Melbourne would design, fabricate and install the kiosks,” the spokesperson said.
Last May the council installed an $87,000 newspaper kiosk in Bourke St outside the NAB building but, as yet, the kiosk has remained closed.
The council said this was because: “Internal adjustments and fit out is being organised by the proposed permit holder. In addition, the opening has been delayed due to the road construction works for the redevelopment of Harbour Esplanade.”
“As soon as the works in that area are complete and fabrication of the internal structure is completed, the kiosk will open for trade,” a council spokesperson said.
The new policy was endorsed at the Future Melbourne Committee last month and covers street trading activities including busking, flower, newspaper and fruit kiosks, spruiking, handbill distribution, street markets, street cylinders, horse and carriage operators and fundraising.
The Lord Mayor Cr Robert Doyle said the new policy would set a new benchmark for street activity in the city and provide clarity for Melbourne’s street traders, workers, visitors and residents on how future street activities will enhance people’s experiences on our streets.
“Great streets make a great city and this policy is all about making Melbourne’s great streets even greater,” Cr Doyle said.
“When people walk through our city, we want them to have a pleasant experience and building on Melbourne’s existing street trading culture will add to our reputation as a world class city.”
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