Melbourne lifts ban on food trucks in the CBD - Herald Sun

Michael Cotter with his famous Po'boy. Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: News Corp Australia

• Food vans can operate in the CBD for the first time


• Seven locations chosen for three-month trial


• Have your say. Scroll down to share your view

FOOD trucks have been given the green light to set up shop in Melbourne’s CBD after a ban was lifted.

For the first time the council has allowed trucks to trade outside of special events.

From Wednesday a dozen mobile vendors will be stationed at seven locations from outside the National Gallery of Victoria to near the Shrine of Remembrance.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said this was the first step in a three-month trial towards making the City of Melbourne more welcoming towards food truck operators.

“Food trucks have come a long way from the roadside doughnut stands and fried-food caravans of yesteryear,” Cr Doyle said.

“Gourmet food vans are a defining part of the culinary scene in global cities such as Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and London.”

The seven locations where vans can set up shop. Source: HeraldSun

Gumbo Kitchen owner Michael Cotter, whose truck is part of the trial, said in the past the council had been restrictive.

“The whole point of food trucks is to activate outdoor spaces, and at the moment not a lot of people are enjoying Melbourne’s beautiful parks,” Mr Cotter said.

“Having food trucks will activate areas not being used.”

Councillor Kevin Louey said it was unlikely the move would upset restaurants and cafes.

“Council’s policy aims to balance the interests of food van operators with the interests of established businesses. The sites we have selected have potential to be popular, without putting them in direct competition with nearby restaurants and businesses,” Cr Louey said.

Operators will notify the public where they are through their own websites.

The City of Melbourne will look at more sites as the trial continues.

Further reading on Melbourne food havens

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