Council support for cafes and restaurants

Tuesday, 24 March 2020

Penrith Council is providing financial relief for cafes and restaurants in the Penrith and St Marys CBD’s who are currently facing economic hardship caused by impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

A relief package will see Council waive charges and fees relating to outdoor and footpath dining permits for 33 businesses in the Penrith and St Marys CBD’s over the next 12 months.

Penrith Mayor Councillor Ross Fowler OAM said cafes and restaurants are an essential part of city and Council will do whatever they can to support them during this time.

“The hospitality sector has been hit very hard in the past week with forced closures and restrictions placed upon them by the Australian Government and we know that many of our small business owners are under enormous financial strain as a result,” Cr Fowler said.

“Council’s relief package aims to ease some of their financial burden immediately with the support to continue over the next 12 months so they can rebuild their businesses even after things return to normal.

“Cafes and restaurants are a vital part of our local economy and are a big employer within our community, we all must do what we can to support them at the moment and into the future,” Cr Fowler said.

“If you can, consider visiting one of our many wonderful cafes and restaurants over the coming weeks and months to purchase takeaway meals or coffees. Your support will ensure they are all still here when all this is over.”

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Tuesday, 24 March 2020.