KEY POINTS:
First it was sign clutter. Now the problem of tables, chairs and drop-screens taking over the footpath in places like Ponsonby Rd is up for review by the Auckland City Council.
After years of ad hoc policy and poor enforcement, the council has decided it is time for a clear street trading policy to ensure pedestrians have first rights to the footpath while allowing al fresco dining to flourish.
According to the council's urban design champion, Ludo Campbell-Reid, the policy is part of a wide package of measures of how the city should look, feel and function better for Aucklanders. Other measures include banning billboards in the central city and tough new sign rules.
Like the current street trading policy, businesses would require a licence to put tables and chairs on the footpath and display goods on the street but there would be clearer rules around things like drop-screens and removing outdoor items at the end of the trading day. The 2m clearway for pedestrians on footpaths would remain.
Verandas should provide cover for pedestrians in the rain, not cover for diners, said senior open space planner John Nash. The policy provided more certainty but was also intended to be more flexible. For example, the current rules restricting outdoor seating to the shop-side would change to allow kerbside seating where it was safe.
The council also planned to stop drinkers spilling out into the street from pubs by only allowing people to drink outdoors while having a meal.
It was moving away from charging a citywide flat fee of $60 a year for each outside chair to a variable fee based on the public space used using a percentage of the local retail rate.
Revenue from fees would go towards improving streetscapes and boosting the number of enforcement officers.
Angela Jakicevich, whose family own the Dida food store and wine bar in Ponsonby, welcomed the idea of a more consistent street trading policy.
The council plans to take the draft to nine business areas and community boards over the next two months and it will come into effect in July if passed by council.
The Proposals
* Outdoor chairs and tables preferred on shop-side but allowed on kerbside where safe.
* Minimum 2m clearway for pedestrians.
* Outdoor drinking limited to people eating a meal.
* All outdoor items removed at end of trading day.
* Limits on drop-screens and barriers.
* Fee based on area used and a percentage of retail rate.
