Outdoor dining pods 

The heart of Ballarat will be enhanced with the CBD green spaces turning into relaxed outdoor dining and picnic areas.  

Thanks to funding from the Victorian Government’s COVID Safe Outdoor Activation Fund 2021, the outdoor dining pods aim to attract more people to the area by creating a comfortable space for people to enjoy food and drink from local businesses.  

The 12 pods will be in the CBD in locations identified as under utilised and close to surrounding hospitality businesses and workplaces. 

The pods will encourage workers to enjoy their lunch in a pleasant space, and families to be able to enjoy picnic style meals in the heart of Ballarat.  

The pods can comfortably seat eight people, creating great opportunities for socialising. The table and roof cover extends beyond the fixed seating, this provides space and accessibility for prams and wheelchair users to access the table and shelter.  

Paths and garden beds will be installed to complement the pods in their locations.  

Locations of the outdoor dining pods. 

• Two dining pods at the corner of Pleasant Street and Sturt Street on the grounds of City Oval.  

• Four dining pods in the grassed area of Sturt Street gardens opposite Windermere Street.  

• Two dining pods in the grassed area of Sturt Street between Drummond and Errard Street, near the hospital precinct.  

• Two dining pods in the Sturt Street gardens between Errard Street and Raglan Street.  

• Two dining pods on Doveton Street reserve, near the multistory carpark, with a granite sand path connecting the pods to the existing footpath.  

The outdoor pods are transportable, meaning they can be trialed at these locations and later moved if required. 

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Daniel Moloney said this is a great way for Ballarat to use our beautiful green spaces more.  

“These pods will create a comfortable spot to enjoy your lunch from a great local hospitality business,” he said.  

“Being able to enjoy the gardens whilst catching up with friends over a casual meal will be enhanced by having these great dining pods.”  

Member for Wendouree, Julianna Addison said this investment is about continuing to activate our city. 

“These new pods will create great open air, but sheltered, spaces for residents or tourists to dine, catch up or relax,” she said.