Plans for a monthly Friday night Foodies and Farmers Market at Menai have progressed.
Krisari Farmers Market has lodged a development application (DA) to establish the market to provide food and fresh produce within the grounds of Parc Menai.
Sutherland Shire Council selected the operator in July, 2018 after publicly advertising for expressions of interest.
The DA proposed the markets be held on the second Friday of each month between 4pm and 9pm.
The applicant requested the council grant a minimum use period of five years, after which further consent would need to be sought.
“The stalls will be located on the existing grassed area, in front of the war memorial, in a radial layout,” the DA said.
“Pedestrians will access the site via the existing, defined paths.
“Stall holders access the site during setup and pack-up via the existing vehicular access off Duncomb Place.”
The DA said stallholders selling food would comply with NSW Food Authority and all statutory provisions.
“No public address system will be used other than for making occasional announcements in relation to the organisation of the markets or to make such emergency announcements as may be required,” the DA said.
“Set-up will begin at 2pm and pack-up will be completed by 11pm.
“The existing Parc Menai toilets are available for use during the operation of the markets and the operators are responsible for cleaning the toilets and replenishing toilet paper in these facilities.”
The DA said stall holders, who were “anchor tenants”, having the highest turnover, were responsible for attracting the majority of the patronage to the markets.
“The market stalls consist of fresh produce, packaged food and drinks, food made for immediate consumption, hot and cold drinks and items/produce sold by artisans,” the DA said.
“All of the stalls, selling food that is prepared on site, will operate in compliance with the requirements of the Food Act 2003, Food Regulations 2004, Food Standards Code and The Food Handling Guidelines for Temporary Events – NSW Food Authority.”
The DA said the market would “provide a valuable monthly community event, encouraging locals residents and businesses to participate through patronage and attendance”.
“The Menai area has existing retailers which will benefit from an influx of people interested in the Foodies and Farmers Market and surrounding businesses,” the DA said.
“Engaging with the immediate and surrounding businesses will strengthen social cohesion and enhance local tourism within the area.
“Established community organisations, 3Bridges Menai Community Centre and Club Central Menai, will be invited to attend and promote the event for wider community engagement.”
The DA said the market would not give rise to any adverse environmental impacts in terms of noise or waste pollution.
“The site is also conveniently serviced by public transport,” the application said.
“The large number of parking spaces on Duncomb Place and in the adjacent shopping centre, are conveniently situated and will more than accommodate the parking requirements of the market.”
