The Meridian Cafe owner says the draft outdoor dining policy fees proposed by Goulburn Mulwaree Council should be an important topic of conversation for business owners across the district. 

The policy, currently on public exhibition, will close in less than two weeks.

Ms Hickey said she couldn’t pay for more fees in addition to what she pays today.

“If council looked after the main street, I’d be inclined to accept the fee,” she said. 

Currently there are six small tables and 12 chairs outside her cafe.

The poor quality of roads, the state of outdoor areas, and the noise created by trucks will all be included in the submission she will put to the council.

As part of the outdoor dining fee structure, Marulan has been separated from the rural villages, which – if the proposal is approved – will pay no fee.

“We don’t understand why Marulan has been singled out,” Ms Hickey said. 

Brett Feld, owner of Farmer Feld’s Fresh Produce on Auburn Street, said outdoor space was a great visual impact and went “hand-in-hand” with the cafe industry.

“It convinces people in town and travellers to stop,” Mr Feld said. “I would like to see more [outdoor dining] areas provided.”

He said the council had done a “fantastic job” in the main street’s enhancement, but more could be done to attract more people.

“Rate payers pay a significant amount of money for the main street. We’re quite happy to pay a reasonable fee. If the competition does it, you do it,” he said.

Goulburn Chamber of Commerce president Mark Bradbury confirmed a submission would be drafted in response to the policy. 

He said the chamber would act as a conduit for businesses who wished to put forward their ideas.