COUNCIL is trialling a mini park idea - known as a parklet - replacing three parking bays along Bloomfield Street in Cleveland.
The concept has been welcomed by Bean and Leaf cafe owner Rob Millard who said he had accepted council's invitation to give the mini park a try in front of his business.
Mr Millard said not having parks close to the footpath was safer for customers.
It also reduced fumes from cars left running in bays while a passenger dashed into a business.
"There is also the positive side for us which has meant extra dining space," Mr Millard said.
A council spokesperson said parklets enhanced streetscapes providing a place where people could sit, relax and enjoy an area.
They had been successfully used across Australia.
The Bloomfield Street park was being trialled until Sunday.
"Council has made no decisions about permanency of the parklet," the spokesperson said.
"The trial is still under way and the community response is yet to be assessed."
Mr Millard said council had intended to provide chairs or other facilities in part of the parklet.
"I would be happy if they make it permanent," he said.
The spokesperson said the idea had been tried last year in Middle Street.
"The community response to the parklet trial was positive," the spokesperson said.
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