Fraser Coast Regional Council have provided grants to local businesses under its Streetscape Scheme assisting building owners refurbish their facades.
Since the scheme started in 2012 Council has invested $30,000 in 14 grants, plus another two that have been approved but have not yet started work.
City and Town Centre Development Portfolio Councillor Daniel Sanderson said businesses could apply for up to $1,500 (including GST) or up to $2,500 if they are a heritage-listed building.
“It is a dollar for dollar scheme. The scheme is helping businesses refurbish their buildings so that our cities remain vibrant, attractive and inviting.”
After five years of working from home Leanne Macklin moved Fraser Coast Catering into new premises on Kent Street, Maryborough and was awarded a grant.
“We’ve owned the building for 18 months and developed an industrial kitchen out the back and a café out the front,” said Mrs Macklin.
“It has been a steady process of refurbishing; starting inside and working our way out.”
Mrs Macklin said the Fraser Coast Catering building has a mixed history.
“It’s been a fish and chip shop, a pizzeria and a bathroom fittings display centre.
“In its heyday it was a grocery store supplying vessels tied up at the
nearby wharves.
“We wanted to keep the shape of the original façade and the tiles so we worked on a colour scheme to have the top match the bottom with a little help from Peter Day Painters.
“The Streetscape Scheme is a good scheme and it was well worth applying for the funds.
“Anything that helps businesses undertake maintenance or renovate is great.”
