Campaspe Shire Council to require fitness providers using public spaces to obtain permits

Campaspe Shire Council is urging fitness providers who use public spaces for personal and group fitness training to apply for a permit for continued use of these spaces.

With the Council having adopted a new policy and guidelines for the use of public spaces in November 2017 - covering activities on its footpaths, parks and reserves, with a focus to ensure that public access remains safe and enjoyable - fitness training was not included.

Now, as Campaspe Shire Mayor Adrian Weston advised "whilst most users of public spaces are required to apply for use, such as markets and events, the policy identified a gap, where fitness providers were not captured.

“The changes to the policy and guidelines now capture this market, ensuring providers apply for use and obtain an annual permit.”

To start the process, the Council has met with fitness providers across the Shire, outlined the changes and advised a phased-in approach for the new permits.

Mayor Weston advised "this will be an application and permit to June 2020, with application, permit and annual fee applicable from 1 July 2020.

“There are many private operators in this market, and whilst we have contacted known providers, we recognise some may have been missed. All are invited to apply for a permit.

“We want to encourage the use of our public spaces for health and recreation, however (we) need to ensure we manage the impact, public safety and public liability risks."

Providers seeking clarification on the new process can speak with Marc Turri in the Council's Recreation team on 1300 666 535.

The Public Places Trading Policy, Public Places Trading Guidelines and Permit Application is available on Council’s website.

Applications are to be made at least 14 days in advance of the first activity.

Image used for illustrative purposes only.