In December the AHF awarded grants to two Scottish organisations located in Dumfries & Galloway dedicated to promoting the fortunes of their communities and revitalising two important historic buildings.
Local Initiatives in New Galloway
Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) was established in 2008 with the purpose to promote regeneration in New Galloway and Kells Parish. Its initial focus has been on saving the Category B listed New Galloway Town Hall from decay and closure and resurrecting it to its central role in village life. The site of the building was historically one of civic importance, but the present building, which stands on the main high street, dates from 1875-76 and is a rebuilding of an earlier civic building. LING wishes to take ownership of the building from the Council and make vital changes, including improvements to the windows, heating, energy efficiency and disability access. The AHF awarded LING a grant of £5,000 towards a condition and options survey, a detailed business plan and a feasibility study to establish whether it should proceed with an asset transfer from Dumfries & Galloway Council.
The Whithorn Trust
The second organisation to benefit from a Project Viability Grant was The Whithorn Trust, which was awarded a grant of £4,000 to develop plans for 45-47 George Street, Whithorn, a building located in the Whithorn Outstanding Conservation Area.
The Trust was established in 1984 as a direct consequence of an archaeological excavation at Whithorn. Now the organisation is looking to take ownership of the high street building via an asset transfer from the Council. Their intention is to use it as a visitor centre, museum and coffee shop to accommodate rising visitor numbers and to help the organisation become more sustainable.
Editor’s notes
1) The Architectural Heritage Fund is a registered charity, working since 1976 to promote the conservation and sustainable re-use of historic buildings for the benefit of communities across the UK, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas. We are the leading heritage social investor and the only specialist heritage lender operating in the UK. We provide advice, development grants and loans.
2) AHF grant-aid in Scotland is only possible thanks to funding from Historic Environment Scotland.
3) For press enquiries please contact Oliver Brodrick Ward, on 020 79250199 / oliver.brodrick-ward@ahfund.org.uk
