Innovative business projects are set to receive a funding boost from the City of Newcastle as part of a program focused on bringing vibrancy and increased visitation to the city.
The Special Business Rate (SBR) program uses levies paid by business owners for the promotion, beautification and development of precincts in the City Centre, Darby Street, Hamilton, Mayfield, New Lambton and Wallsend.
Applications are open for the City Centre and Darby Street funding round. There is $800,000 available for projects that will deliver the most creative and innovative ideas to boost local businesses.
City of Newcastle recently approved four project proposals in the Hamilton funding round. Each project received a share of $50,000.
The successful Hamilton projects include a mini-festival held in Gregson Park by the Curious Legends, an interactive mural at Hamilton Hive by UP&UP inspirations, and a Beaumont Street footpath project by artist Paul Maher.
Curious Legends CEO Mitchell Reese said he wanted to bring a performance to Hamilton that was like past productions they had brought to other suburbs.
“We did an event earlier this year called Luminous Creatures in Civic Park. It was hugely successful so we decided to do something similar for Hamilton,” Reese said.
“We are currently in discussion with Newcastle Council and the Hamilton BIA (Business Improvement Association) about the final direction for this project. Currently, it looks like we’ll be creating a larger event in Hamilton at Gregson Park this November for family crowds.
“It will be centred around an evening performance of our new show, Curb. We’re aiming for live music, market stalls, food trucks, and of course, giant, illuminated puppets.
“This particular production is also one we will be pitching to festivals, so really, the council is helping us launch it, and then we will be able to take it further.”
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the SBR program provided invaluable support for the business precincts while bringing creative and innovative projects to the community.
“City of Newcastle recognises the integral role and contribution of local businesses to the city’s economic development,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The Special Business Rate program is an important way to involve local businesses and the community in the development and promotion of their local business precincts.
“The creative and innovative projects delivered with SBR funding add to the vibrancy and activation of Newcastle, while also driving increased visitation and expenditure.”
Categories of focus include industry and business development, place activation and events, beautification and infrastructure development, and promotion.
More than $1.6M was distributed through the SBR program in 2020/21 to 19 successful projects. Last year’s SBR funding generated a total economic impact of $5,821,261 for the city.
For more information on the SBR program and funding opportunities, visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au.
Applications for the City Centre and Darby Street funding round close on July 31.
Hayley McMahon