A new funding scheme which aims to transform the historic environment and boost the local economy through investment in Louth, Wragby and Horncastle’s historic shopping areas is now open to applications.
Funded through the East Lindsey Investment Fund (ELIF), the Heritage Grant Scheme will be administered by Heritage Lincolnshire and will offer medium and small grants to retail businesses in the market towns for the repair and reinstatement of their historic buildings.
Eligible works include exterior works to shopfronts, signage, improvement of the appearance of upper floors and the reinstatement of historic features. There is also funding to improve public areas and funding to explore future investment and development options for vacant or neglected sites in these areas.
This project builds on the success and popularity of the previous Healing Horncastle Town Centre grant scheme, funded by East Lindsey District Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund.
Works completed as part of the Horncastle scheme include shopfront repairs, new signage and window replacements, alongside Town Centre Conservation works on Ghost Signs, landscaping and redecoration works in Market Place and St Lawrence Street Car Park, free gutter clearance for more than 40 properties in Horncastle Town Centre and pigeon proofing.
All three towns are designated as Conservation Areas and are currently included in the National Heritage At Risk Register, but it is hoped that with targeted investment and improvements they can be removed.
Councillor Craig Leyland, Leader of East Lindsey District Council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to work together to improve and preserve buildings which should be celebrated.
“It’s important for us all to work towards conserving our historic towns, not just for our visitors but also the people who live and work in them.
“By making our market towns more attractive, and highlighting our unique heritage, we should see greater footfall, more attractive shopping areas and an improved sense of civic pride.
“The works in Horncastle have already made a difference and the town has a pipeline of projects ready to carry out works to improve the condition of a number of properties.
