The council’s Retail Area Facade Improvement Program aims to improve the look of towns by helping fund facelifts to business shopfronts.

At its meeting on Tuesday, councillors voted to allocate almost $59,000 to 26 businesses across Corangamite.

Under the program, businesses can receive up to $3000, which they match dollar for dollar, to carry out makeover works.

Councillor Neil Trotter said the program had already been a great success.

“I think this has been a very successful program. It makes a huge difference in the appearance of our towns. When you travel around the state, I’ve seen other towns that are in decline and they probably scream out for a program like this,” Cr Trotter said.

“It helps to improve the livability of our towns and attract people to them.”

Cr Geoff Smith said although he was reluctant to support the program at first, he had since seen it was worthwhile.

“I was one of those who had doubts about this program right from the start, simply because we’re spending public money on private property, but we took a chance on it and it has turned out to be very successful,” he said.

Cr Wayne Oakes said it was exciting to see businesses across the shire embrace the program.

Chief executive Andrew Mason said applications were received from six towns across the shire.

“Projects include the painting and cleaning of shop facades, installation of awnings, removal of old signage and the creation of a mural by a famous artist, showing the diversity of projects and works that were considered as part of the program,” he said.

Successful businesses include the Terang newsagent, Skipton pharmacy, Timboon Distillery, Camperdown Newsagency and Port Campbell Hostel. Businesses have until the end of May next year to complete the works.