Facade Improvement Program (FIP) - How to apply and assessment criteria
The following is a brief outline of how the FIP application and implementation process will operate for Round 2.
Contact Council
Applicants are advised to call us to discuss the FIP and determine if their proposal is aligned with the objectives of the program. Please contact our Place Making and Urban Design team, Logan City Council on 07 3412 3412 or email placemakingandurbandesign@logan.qld.gov.au.
Prepare and submit your application
The applicant will prepare documentation to demonstrate how their proposal will meet the objectives of the FIP and provide details of the proposed works.
The application must:
- meet the minimum requirements of the program
- include two quotes for the proposed improvement works
- be lodged electronically through the Smarty Grants portal.
8 principles of successful building facades
These 8 principles of successful facades will guide businesses in the preparation of their applications. The assessment of each application will look at how each of the principles has been addressed.
-
Accessible
Maximising access to businesses for people of all abilities makes economic sense and ensures an equitable City. Safe, practical and efficient access to and from businesses will be supported. -
Variation
Each building Facade should complement the character of the streetscape but also add visual interest. Varied facades enhance the sense of place or identity of a street. People are more likely to engage with a streetscape that offers a variety of different treatments. -
Order
A clutter free building Facade improves the appearance of the building and wider streetscape. The removal of air conditioning units, operational machinery, wiring and utilities will all be encouraged as part of the FIP. -
Consistency
Consistency in the detailing of each Facade is a critical element to a strong street identity. The use of clear, consistent and complementary signage helps to form a recognisable character for the streetscape. -
Adaptable
Facade improvements should improve the flexibility of the premises to accommodate day and evening activity, encouraging more activity within the street, and enhancing the vibrancy of the urban centre. -
Attractive
Building facades are a critical element of the public domain, they define the edge and set the tone. Building facades can either encourage people to meet, talk and linger or disperse and avoid. A well-designed Facade will provide visual interest at different scales. The use of form and colour can attract people from distance. Strong detailing engages pedestrians and encourages them to linger. -
Quality
High quality materials are a strong characteristic of successful streets. Sustainable materials that are hard wearing, safe for public use and fit for purpose will be favoured. -
Secure
Security features should not contradict the principles of a high-quality streetscape. The use of internal shutters (behind display), greater shutter transparency and reinforced glazing all help to ensure facades remain engaging during the day and night.
Assessment criteria
The prioritisation of projects will be based on our assessment of each application and how it responds to the criteria in the below table. The criteria have been created to ensure that public funds are used in a manner that is fully aligned with our policies and Corporate Plan.
| Assessment criteria | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| High Impact and Successful Facades |
The proposed enhancement is highly visible and publicly accessible. Applications for improvements visible from active highly trafficked areas of the city will be prioritised. Preference will be given to premises that are located within the following place hierarchy:
Zoning as defined in the Logan Planning Scheme 2015 v8.1. Local plan areas can be found through the interactive tool on Logan City Council’s PD Hub. |
40 |
| Connected to Place |
The proposed enhancements are aligned with Council’s Strategic Plans and will clearly contribute to place revitalisation in the street. Each application will be required to demonstrate public benefit and community value delivered by their proposal. High levels of street engagement and activity generating features will be prioritised. Evidence of engagement with the Place Making and Urban Design team will be considered favourably. |
30 |
| Value for Money |
Priority will be given to shopfronts in disrepair or in poor to moderate condition. The quoted items and/or services to deliver the improvements represent value for money. Proposed items to be purchased are sustainable, hard wearing, safe for public use and fit for long term outdoor use. |
20 |
| Local Benefit |
The quoted items and/or services to deliver the improvements indicate use of SEQ based suppliers and businesses. Does the contractor undertaking the proposed works have their registered business address within the Logan City Council boundaries. |
10 |
Assessment by panel
All valid applications will be reviewed based on their merits and response to the assessment criteria by the assessment panel. Each application will be scored to determine prioritisation of funding if required in the allocation process. The assessment panel will make a recommendation on which application should receive funding to the Economic Development and Strategy Branch Manager for approval.
Notification of decision
Successful applicants will be notified by email or formal letter. The decision on which applications are successful is final, subject to the execution of the funding agreement.
Funding agreement
Successful applicants will need to enter into a funding agreement with Council prior to the commencement of any works. The funding agreement will clearly set out the obligations of both Council and the applicant in relation to the proposed works and the release of funding.
Commencement of works
Works can commence in accordance with the conditions identified in the funding agreement. If required, applicants will need to obtain a development approval and/or building approval prior to commencing any work.
Acquittal reports
The applicant must prepare and submit a Grant Acquittal Form – including tax invoices, proof of payment and before and after photos of the building facade.
Release of funds
Council will release funding once the Grant Acquittal Form has been approved.