The Town Centre Improvement Fund supports businesses to improve the look of their buildings. There is $200K available for projects that bring vitality to the CBD. Businesses can access funds to cover up to 80 percent of the cost of their proposed project.

Who can apply?

Businesses with a postal address on Queen Street (from New World Masterton through to Renall Street) and on eligible side streets between Chapel Street and Dixon Street can apply.

Eligible side streets include King Street, Lincoln Road, Church Street, Perry Street, Bannister Street, and Worksop Road.

A map will be made available shortly.

How does it work?

This is the process for accessing the fund:

  • Check to see if your address is eligible for funding.
  • Read the fund information sheet (PDF, 153KB).
  • Plan your work and obtain quotes from contractors.
  • Complete an application and submit it before Thursday 30 April.

Once applications are closed:

  • Applications will be assessed by the Town Centre Scrum made up of mana whenua, local trusts, and business representatives. They will make recommendations to the Chief Executive of Masterton District Council.
  • The Chief Executive of Masterton District Council will make the final decision on allocation.
  • You will be contacted to let you know if your application was successful.

Doing the work:

  • Your project needs to be complete within 12 months.
  • You should keep thorough records to complete accountability reporting.

Note: Any applicable building or resource consents must be obtained before the project progresses.

The funding can be used for the following types of projects.

  • Restoration of original features
  • Parapet reinstatement
  • Verandahs – new or altered
  • External painting in heritage or complementary colours
  • External lighting
  • Removal of redundant signage
  • Relocation of equipment, for example, air conditioning units
  • Repairs and maintenance that include some aesthetic improvement
  • Improvements that incorporate or reflect our heritage and culture, with emphasis on mana whenua values – for example, incorporating or reflecting these elements in design, signage, colour schemes etc

The funding is meant to help businesses fund part of a project.

If the total cost of the project is more than $15,000 (exclusive of GST) – applications can be made for up to 50% of total, to a maximum of $25,000 in most circumstances.

Applications for more than $25,000 would need to demonstrate significant community benefit, as well as showcasing our heritage and culture in a unique and substantive way

If the total cost of the project is less than $15,000 (exclusive of GST) – applications can be made for up to 80% of the total.

Funding will be only released when you have finished the work outlined in your application.

You should provide the following evidence:

  • Invoices from service providers confirming the work undertaken
  • Photographic evidence, where applicable, clearly showing the completed works
  • A written statement describing the work completed.

All evidence must be deemed satisfactory and consistent with the approved scope of work for payment to be made.