Shopfront Improvement Program 2023-2024

Published on 11 July 2022

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Burwood Council will be taking applications for its Shopfront Improvement Program 2023/24 between Thursday 1 February 2024 - Friday 29 March 2024.

What is the Shopfront Improvement Program?

Burwood Council provides funding to local businesses who want to improve the appearance of their shopfront. The Program assists Council to achieve strategic objectives outlined in the 'Community Strategic Plan Burwood2036', by supporting local economic development, improving community safety and enhancing the overall appearance of the local area.

Applicants can apply for up to $3,000 (inclusive of GST) for eligible projects. Funding for approved projects are paid directly to the applicant upon completion of the approved works.  

Eligible Locations

The Shopfront Improvement Program will be delivered in a staged approach over a three (3) year period in accordance with the ‘eligible locations’ outlined in the table below.

YEAR

ELIGIBLE LOCATIONS

2021/22

Burwood Town Centre (ongoing)

Enfield Local Centre (Year 1)

2022/23

Burwood Town Centre (ongoing)

The Strand, Croydon and Croydon Park Local Centres (Year 2)

2023/24

Burwood Town Centre (ongoing)

Strathfield Town Centre (Year 3)

 How do I apply?

Local businesses wishing to apply for funding must complete the required application form and provide supporting documentation by the closing date each year. Please see the detailed policy requirements below. Applicants may be required to obtain additional approvals or meet additional requirements depending on the nature of the works proposed. 

Shopfront Improvement Program Policy 2021-2024(PDF, 528KB)

Applicants are also encouraged to view Council’s Shopfront Improvement Guide by clicking the below link for further guidance on requirements within the Burwood Development Control Plan. 

Burwood Shopfront Improvement Guide(PDF, 4MB)

What types of projects can be funded?

The types of projects that will be considered for funding under the Program include:

  • Façade improvements (e.g. the relocation of air conditioning units away from the street and graffiti removal).
  • New or improved signage, which is consistent with the Burwood Development Control Plan.
  • Exterior improvements that contribute to a building’s character and promote a coordinated look along the street.
  • Improvements to awnings and structures that increase pedestrian safety and shopfront security.

Council will not fund:

  • Works already commenced or completed at the time of application.
  • Works that require consent under a Development Application and where that consent has not yet been approved by Council or other Consent Authority.
  • Routine maintenance or interior work (e.g. carpet cleaning, cleaning of gutters).
  • Any work that would not improve the appearance, detail, fabric or finish of the premises.
  • Any work that is not in keeping with the general intent of Council’s development controls, plans or policies.
  • Any work that would preclude more worthy applications from being funded.