Three small businesses in Ipswich Central have finished their facelifts, after council matched contributions of up to $15,000 under the Pilot Façade Improvement Program.
Choices Flooring by Mallets, Inhouse Bathrooms and Ipswich Massage & Spa are among the 12 businesses to receive a grant under the $137,000 program, with shopfront works including new green plant walls, signage, logos, awnings and lighting, and asbestos removal, now complete.
Division 3 Councillor Andrew Fechner said the façade upgrades provided a boost for local businesses and CBD streets.
“Façade renovations improve the streetscape and make Ipswich Central a more interesting place to walk around,” Cr Fechner said.
“With the help of council’s program, businesses have revitalised several city shopfronts in interesting and imaginative ways.
“One participating business, Ipswich Massage & Spa, added a green plant wall with external lighting to their facade, which beautifies the building and complements council’s commitment to greening up the Ipswich CBD.”
Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle said the façade renovations are helping protect Ipswich Central heritage while also improving walkability.
“Some businesses have chosen to update their awnings which increases shade and reduces urban heat,” Cr Doyle said.
“These improvements will make our city centre a better place to visit and encourage more people to support local shops, cafes and other businesses.
“I am pleased with how these renovations are progressing and applaud the commitment and creativity of local businesses who have partnered with council to improve our CBD.”
Seven of the 12 businesses participating in the Pilot Façade Improvement Program have now completed their shopfront upgrades, after council approved an expanded pool of funds and recipients in November 2020.
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