Ballarat CBD green spaces enhanced by outdoor dining pods

Ballarat’s CBD green spaces have been enhanced with 12 outdoor dining pods aiming to attract more people to the area by creating a comfortable space for people to enjoy food and drink from local businesses.

Funding from the Victorian Government’s COVIDSafe Outdoor Activation Fund 2021 has seen the 12 pods located in CBD locations identified as under utilised and close to surrounding hospitality businesses and workplaces.

The pods will encourage workers to enjoy their lunch in a pleasant space, and families to be able to enjoy picnic style meals in the heart of Ballarat.

The pods can comfortably seat eight people, creating great opportunities for socialising. The table and roof cover extends beyond the fixed seating, this provides space and accessibility for prams and wheelchair users to access the table and shelter.

Paths and garden beds will be installed to complement the pods in their locations.

Locations of the outdoor dining pods:

• Two dining pods at the corner of Pleasant Street and Sturt Street on the grounds of City Oval.

• Four dining pods in the grassed area of Sturt Street gardens opposite Windermere Street.

• Two dining pods in the grassed area of Sturt Street between Drummond and Errard Street, near the hospital precinct.

• Two dining pods in the Sturt Street gardens between Errard Street and Raglan Street.

• Two dining pods on Doveton Street reserve, near the multistory carpark, with a granite sand path connecting the pods to the existing footpath.

The outdoor pods are transportable, meaning they can be trialled at these locations and later moved if required.

City of Ballarat Mayor Daniel Moloney said this is a great way for Ballarat to expand the use of its beautiful green spaces and adds “being able to enjoy the gardens whilst catching up with friends over a casual meal will be enhanced by having these great dining pods.”

Image courtesy City of Ballarat