Great news for owners of heritage buildings throughout the MidCoast Council region following an announcement applications for the 2018-19 Local Heritage Fund has opened.
Residents who own a heritage building which was in need of a fresh coat of paint, repairs or works to restore it to its former glory could be eligible for some financial assistance.
The Local Heritage Fund is available to owners of heritage buildings across the MidCoast Council area.
MidCoast Council heritage adviser, Lillian Cullen was delighted to see the annual grants program offered again this year.
“The Local Heritage Fund is all about preserving our region’s heritage and breathing new life into buildings and places from our past,” Ms Cullen said.
“We’ve seen some amazing restoration projects come to life through this initiative, and it’s great that the NSW Heritage Branch is working alongside council again this year to open up this exciting funding opportunity.”
Heritage grants offer assistance of up to $1000, but in some special cases up to $2000 can be provided.
As part of the application process, eligible property-owners must demonstrate their contribution to the project, as the grant cannot make up more than 50 per cent of the total project cost.
“These grants are like a helping hand to make a start on your renovation project, and they’re a great way to help preserve our local history.
“In past years up to $135,000 worth of improvements has been completed for a total grant allocation of around $12,000.”
The MidCoast LGA is home to almost 420 heritage listed places, each of which contribute to keeping the history of the region alive for future generations.
Recently completed projects include painting, new fences and repairs to heritage houses, offices and former school buildings – all of these projects received assistance last year.
Heritage advice also was available for those who were thinking about restoration but not certain where to start.
A heritage place can be either individually heritage listed or be within in one of the 14 heritage conservation areas located across the Mid Coast LGA.
To find out more about the program, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/LHF
Applications for the 2018-19 Local Heritage Fund close on Friday, May 18 and work must be completed by early May 2019.
