Penrith City Council has committed to supporting local businesses as the cost-of-living and economic pressures make operating hospitality business difficult.
At Council's Ordinary Meeting on Monday 29 April 2024, Councillors unanimously resolved to reduce outdoor dining fees by 75% for local businesses until 30 June 2025.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said this relief is crucial for food and beverage businesses in Penrith which have been finding it difficult over the last 12 months due to the current economic climate.
"In order to support local businesses, Council has resolved a 75% reduction in outdoor dining fees for 2024-25 financial year," Cr Carney said.
"It is a tough time for business, particularly with the cost-of-living pressures leading to reduced consumer spending, increases in rent and operating costs as well as staff shortages all affecting our local businesses."
Cr Carney said it's extremely important that Council does its part to ensure these businesses remain open and by reducing the outdoor dining fee, it is one step closer to relieving that pressure.
"Council is also hosting a hospitality forum on Tuesday 7 May from 10.00am-12.00pm at Mr Watkins, High Street Penrith, where local hospitality business will come together to rebuild resilience in this sector."
"The aim of this financial relief is to help business owners through this difficult period as we want their doors to remain open to all."
For more information on the forum, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
