Grant funding is now available towards the renovation and restoration of buildings in Leominster’s historic town centre
Leominster’s town centre is set to benefit from the renovation and restoration of a number of its historic buildings thanks to grant funding available through the Leominster High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) programme.
The Leominster HSHAZ is a regeneration initiative led by Historic England, delivered through Herefordshire Council and Leominster Town Council, with a multi-million pound investment in the market town over the next three years. Alongside revitalising historic buildings, the programme aims to improve public spaces and create a vibrant place for locals, businesses and visitors.
The grant scheme provides funding for property owners and leaseholders towards the renovation and restoration of historic buildings in Leominster’s conservation area. Further details and how to submit an expression of interest can be found on our website
Councillor Ellie Chowns, Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet member for environment and economy, said:
“I am delighted to be involved such an exciting investment in Leominster’s heritage. This project is key to the regeneration of Leominster town centre and will be a major part of the town’s economic recovery and cultural development. Local property owners and leaseholders are invited to consider how they could make the best use of the available grant funding to help reinvigorate the town and make a real difference to residents and visitors.”
Councillor John Rumsey, Leominster Town Council’s Mayor, said:
“It’s fantastic news for our whole community that Historic England have recognised Leominster’s unique heritage and are investing in the town’s conservation area. We want to celebrate Leominster’s amazing history, and its beautiful buildings, while supporting the local economy to recover and thrive in the years ahead. This is an exciting opportunity for all residents and businesses that will also allow visitors to better appreciate our town.”
More about the Leominster High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) programme
The Leominster HSHAZ is a regeneration initiative led by Historic England, delivered through Herefordshire Council and Leominster Town Council. Historic England has committed funding towards a multi-million pound scheme, which is supported by a matched financial contribution from Herefordshire Council and contribution in kind from Leominster Town Council.
This major investment in the market town over the next three years looks to deliver schemes that will transform and restore disused and dilapidated buildings into new homes, shops, work places and community spaces, restoring local historic character and improving public spaces. The project will see street scene improvements in the High Street, Corn Square and the wider conservation area, creating a vibrant place to live, work and visit.
The programme is being led by a steering group chaired by the Mayor of Leominster, Councillor John Rumsey, with representatives from Leominster Town Council, Herefordshire Council, Historic England, and local business and community groups.
Sarah Lewis, from Historic England, said:
“We are delighted to support the development of this characterful and charming historic town. Leominster is a place of great interest where narrow lanes, alleys and timber framed buildings reveal a rich medieval past overlain, and sometimes hidden, by gracious brick facades of a later age that also characterise its broader streets. Its Georgian and Victorian shop fronts are of particularly good quality, with delightful detailing. The HSHAZ will help reveal some of Leominster’s hidden history and make sure that its fantastic heritage takes a leading role in the recovery from lockdown.”
