CBD businesses to benefit from Council’s Façade Improvement Scheme

Published on 27 September 2016

Rockhampton CBD businesses are being given the opportunity to give their shopfronts a make-over after a Façade Improvement Scheme was adopted unanimously in Council today. 

The scheme, which aims to encourage building owners to upgrade their facades, is part of Council’s CBD Revitalisation project.

Rockhampton Regional Council’s Acting Mayor Councillor Cherie Rutherford said Council had already gauged the level of interest for the Scheme and the response so far had been overwhelmingly positive.

“As part of the CBD revitalisation, our aim is to create a vibrant hub for business, community and visitors – something we cannot do without the help from business owners,” she said.

“A renewed streetscape is just another element to the overall vision of a thriving city heart for the entire Region.”

Council has allocated $40,000 to the Scheme for this financial year, which will initially be introduced as a trial.

A maximum Council contribution of $3,000 for shopfronts less than 12 metres and $5,000 for shopfronts greater than 12 metres will be granted to eligible business owners.  

With a number of Quay and East Street businesses expressing  interest in the Scheme, Cr Rutherford said now is the right time to coincide façade improvements with the riverbank revitalisation.

“Our iconic streetscape tells the story of a very proud history, and this Scheme will help us better showcase that history,” she said.  

“As part of our commitment to supporting local buy where possible, local businesses and tradespeople must be employed for the façade improvement works.”

Eligible businesses include Quay, Denham and East Street buildings between Fitzroy and William Streets.

Council is seeking expressions of interest from local businesses and tradespeople who specialise in shopfront design and refurbishment.

For more information about the Scheme or to download and submit an application form visit The Facade Improvement Scheme Webpage on Council's website.

Eligible works for façade improvements include:

  • Lighting
  • Exterior walls
  • Windows and doors
  • Storefronts
  • Entranceways
  • Awnings/canopies
  • Signage
  • Exterior architectural and/or artistic features
  • Architectural/designer fees (to a maximum of $500)
  • Landscaping (to a maximum of $500)
  • Façade painting
  • Removal of cladding from presently concealed historic character buildings
  • Reinstatement of lost elements, or fabric to the façade of the building.

Click here to visit The Facade Improvement Scheme Webpage.

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