In an exciting development for the Banyo Village business community, Banyo has been selected as one of two suburban precincts to participate in the ‘Growing Precincts Together’ Program. This Council-led initiative aims to invigorate local retail precincts and foster a sense of community within them.
Following the success of a similar initiative in Nundah and recognising the pivotal role that local retail precincts play in our communities, the Growing Precincts Together program aims to provide comprehensive support to businesses, empowering them to promote their precinct as a vibrant and attractive destination.
By establishing a partnership between Brisbane City Council and local businesses, the program works towards realising a shared vision for the precinct.
Facilitated by the Council’s Economic Growth team, the program does not follow a rigid structure but instead tailors assistance and support based on the specific needs and priorities of each precinct. The support provided can range from one-on-one business coaching to specialised training in digital marketing and visual merchandising. Additionally, shopfront makeovers and specialised food business coaching are offered to enhance the overall appeal and functionality of the precinct.
“Local retail precincts are the heart of our communities. Through the Growing Precincts Together program, Council provides hands-on support to key shopping precincts to help tenants and owners of businesses to promote the precinct as a vibrant and attractive destination. The program develops a partnership between Council and local businesses to achieve the vision for the precinct,”
Councillor Adam Allan
The Growing Precincts Together program unfolds in three stages. It commences with the “understanding phase,” which involves a comprehensive business audit conducted by the Council’s Economic Development team. This audit helps stakeholders gain a deeper understanding of the existing business and vacancy mix within the precinct.
The second stage, the “engage phase,” begins with a kick-off event where the precinct analysis, survey findings, and inspirational ideas are presented. Attendees have the opportunity to network with other business owners, ask questions, and interact with Council officers.
Finally, the third stage introduces the “precinct playbook,” a framework that outlines the opportunities available for businesses to activate, beautify, and connect their local centre.
Situated around St Vincent’s Rd and Royal Parade, Banyo precinct is divided by a train line and station. With approximately 60 businesses and stakeholders in the area, mainly comprising cafes and restaurants, the precinct currently experiences a vacancy rate of 6.5 per cent. The program seeks to cultivate a harmonious working relationship among these businesses to ensure the continued success and prosperity of the precinct.
Published 4-June-2023
