'It’s better than having the doors closed': strict rules pose reopening challenge for Melbourne businesses

Melbourne’s hospitality industry begins its transition from a long slumber to welcoming customers, but strict density limits may delay the opening of some businesses as they adjust to the new rules. Roughly half of cafes and restaurants on Melbourne’s famous Chapel Street shopping strip will be able to open their doors on Wednesday, as businesses hurriedly rework their premises to allow outdoor dining. Chrissie Maus, general manager of the Chapel Street Precinct Association, was “extraordinarily relieved and excited” when premier Daniel Andrews announced hospitality could reopen, but said “it’s an absolute pipe dream to think that the majority of our businesses will just be able to transition to outdoor dining”.