Consultation sought on Shire of Waroona’s Mobile Vendor Policy to limit adverse effects on local businesses

Waroona has put the wheels in motion to ensure an increase in the prevalence of food vans does not detract from local businesses. The Shire of Waroona is seeking consultation on a new Mobile Vendor Policy as it tries to limit the adverse effects food vans and street traders have on “bricks and mortar” businesses in the area. The Shire’s website stated the intention of the policy was to enable mobile food traders to provide members of the public with a service that “enhances the vibrancy and economic activity of the Shire” without adversely affecting other businesses. Waroona Shire president Mike Walmsley said other councils had come up with similar policies to control the impact of food vans. “There are quite a few mobile vendors popping up everywhere and we need to have a policy around that,” he said. “We need to be mindful of the businesses that are here and protect them, whilst still trying to foster a bit of vibrancy.” The policy also indicated the council wanted to make sure public safety, pedestrian access and the amenity of public spaces was not impacted. The draft policy states chief executive Mark Goodlet would ensure mobile food vendors were suitably located to provide a service to the public, did not operate within 300m of an open “bricks and mortar” food business, operated in a safe and accessible location and were limited so there was not an oversupply. Some councillors raised concern the distance of 300m was too far given the small nature of the town, but the council voted 7 to 0 to endorse the draft policy for community consultation. One local food van operator told the Harvey-Waroona Reporter they operated only at markets due to “astronomical fees” and strict guidelines in the area. Copies of the draft proposal are available from the Shire office or the website and the submission period closes at 4pm on April 29.