Hawkesbury Council's mission to revitalise its town centres has taken another step forward with the release of two draft policies for public comment.
On display are the Draft Windsor Mall and Draft Markets policies, each with a common thread of setting revised guidelines and approval processes to those looking to make sue of the areas key public spaces.
advise the standard and style of furniture for outdoor dining and footpath trading permits.
The draft Windsor Mall policy highlights a range of permitted activities and the application and approval process for each, including busking and retail displays, through to markets and entertainment.
It also sets a standard and style of furniture allowed for outdoor dining and footpath trading permits.
"Main streets are generally within central business districts and are locations for trade and public interaction and as such are part of the public domain," says council's draft policy.
"Pedestrian spaces are people places created to improve the utilisation and enjoyment of town centres.
"The purpose of the policy is to make Windsor Mall available for a range of activities to promote the use of the mall; Windsor as a town centre; the Hawkesbury community; and the Hawkesbury as a destination for residents and visitors, which will serve to activate and make the Windsor town centre more vibrant.
"A person seeking to undertake an activity in Windsor Mall must comply with the policy and any applicable Acts or other laws that apply to the circumstances of the activity proposal."
The Draft Markets Policy has similar goals, when it comes to approved on Crown or council-owned land.
"Hawkesbury City Council recognises the contributions that local markets make socially, culturally and economically to the local government area," the draft policy states.
"Well managed markets activate and bring vibrancy to public spaces enhancing potential while promoting health lifestyles and encouraging local production, distribution and consumption of food and other goods."
The draft policy, which pertains to markets operating on a regular basis, aims to establish a "consistent process" of assessment and approval.
"The policy also seeks to demonstrate the level of commitment required from market operators to achieve quality market operations," the poilcy stated.
"It aims to facilitate well managed markets that help to support and contribute to local communities, complementing the offerings of local businesses."
Both draft policies are on public exhibition until Friday, December 18, and can be viewed on council's website hawkesburycouncil.com.au or via the Have Your Say tab or directly at yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au
Hard copies of each can also be viewed at council's administration building, 366 George Street, Windsor, during office hours, 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday; or Richmond Library from 9.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday or 9am to 1pm Saturdays; or Hawkesbury Central Library, 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, 9am to 1pm on Saturdays, and 2pm to 5pm on Sundays.
Written submissions addressed to the General Manager by mail to Hawkesbury City Council, PO Box 146, Windsor NSW 2756, or by email to council@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au, will be accepted up to close of business on December 18.
