We are launching a small grants scheme to assist owners within Bo'ness to be able to repair their buildings and shopfronts.
This scheme is supported by the Scottish Government's Town Centre Fund which is an initiative to make town centres more diverse, sustainable and successful in the face of changing and evolving retail patterns.
Aim of the scheme
The aim of the scheme is to support the rejuvenation of Bo'ness town centre by assisting to create a significant improvement in the environment.
It aims to do this through improving the streetscape by restoring traditional shopfronts, architectural details, landmark buildings and key buildings within the South Street and East Partings focus area.
The scheme will assist property owners and tenants improve and repair their historic properties to contribute to the regeneration of Bo'ness. Where buildings are vacant, funding may be available to assist with bringing the buildings back into use.
The general principles of the Small Repair and Shopfront scheme are:
- Adopt proven traditional building techniques based on analysis of the causes of defects and an understanding of the historic development of the building
- Avoid unnecessary damage and avoid replacement of sound historic fabric
- Restore features based on appropriate evidence
- Safeguard the future of the building with regular maintenance
Grants available
Grants are available to contribute towards small scale eligible elements such as refurbishment to rainwater goods, masonry, slating or lead works or window repairs.
For shopfronts, grants are available to assist the removal of modern intrusive interventions and reinstate lost heritage, refurbish and repair the shops and to reinstate heritage signage.
The scheme will provide owners access to an experienced conservation architect who will be able to assist with the following:
- Determining what statutory consents are required and making the applications
- Advising on the repair of a shopfront or building or design work for alterations
- Selecting and appointing a contractor
- Overseeing the management and construction of the works
Eligible works
- Structural and external repairs to historic buildings which are still in use, for example works to roofs, masonry, rainwater goods, external doors and windows.
- Re-instatement of architectural detail - this may include ornamental metal work, decorative tiling or timber or stone details where the building is in an otherwise good condition, or will be repaired as part of the project.
- Shopfront improvement - where works restore or contribute positively to the built heritage of the Conservation Area.
- For further details of eligible works please contact the project officer.
The following works are excluded:
- Routine maintenance and other minor repairs
- Alterations, extensions and internal work
- Demolition of historic fabric
- Upgrading and renewal of services, including underground drainage
- Stone cleaning and other similar treatments
- Works underway prior to approval of grant
Who can apply
Building owners of properties in the South Street and East Partings area can apply for funding and will be assessed on a range of criteria.
Current Funding
While the fund is currently closed please get in touch should you wish to discuss your property for future funding opportunities.
Agents: Nick Blair, Director. Tim Clark, Associate.