Built Environment Initiative

The Built Environment Initiative aims to promote the repair of listed buildings/structures which are considered to be at risk* throughout the AONB This includes traditional buildings within conservation areas, historic buildings or structures which are important local landmarks and other man made features contributing to the character of settlements within the AONB.

Work must be carried out to a high standard, employing traditional materials and methods. Along with practical repair work the Initiative seeks to raise public awareness of the importance of the historic built fabric within Nidderdale and increase the attractiveness of the area for local people and tourists alike.

The three grants available are:

Historic Buildings/Structures Repair Grants: The repair of historic buildings/structures that are considered to be at risk *. These could be listed buildings or scheduled ancient monuments, possibly unlisted but of high landscape value or in a prominent building in a conservation area.

50% up to a maximum of £10,000 for private projects that would increase the economic value of an historic asset and 75% up to a maximum of £10,000 for historic assets that have little or no economic value.

In exceptional cases where the asset is of high local importance, but has no economic value the rate and maximum grant may be increased if approved by the Chair of the JAC in addition to the approval of both funding parties.

Building Repairs Grants: targeted on the repair of listed buildings throughout the AONB and traditional buildings in conservation areas.

Repairs 50% up to a maximum of £5,000 for private projects and 50% up to a maximum of £10,000 for community buildings.

Generally priority will be given to repairs but reinstatement of architectural features on listed buildings and buildings in conservation areas are also eligible. Where buildings are listed by virtue of being within the curtilage of the listed building (and not in a conservation area) a lower level of grant assistance will be considered. Reinstatement and curtilage buildings 50% up to max £3,000

Environmental Enhancement Grants: especially targeted on the repair or reinstatement of historic features such as traditional paving, stone walls (where they are of historic or visual importnace to the landscape or within a settlement) and 'estate' fencing.

Generally 50% up to a max of £2000 for private projects and £7,500 for community projects. However each case will be treated on its merits and the level of grant may be increased to 75% up to a maximum of £10,000 in special cases if approved by the Chair of the JAC in addition to the approval of both funding parties.

Where other public funding is available for a project, the above maxima may be reduced to ensure that the project is not 100% funded with public monies, except in very exceptional circumstances.

Example of projects funded

restoration of boundary wall to John O Gaunts Castle using match funding contributed by the owner and English Heritage towards the consolidation of the Monument.
the expert restoration of a plaster roundel in the Temple of Piety at Fountains Abbey.
the repair of the listed Apprentices House at Blubberhouses.
the resurfacing of the Old Market Place in Pateley Bridge.
repairs have started on the spire at St Paul's Church Healey.

The scheme is administered by Harrogate Borough Council's Conservation & Design Section. For further information please contact Ann Johnson.

* At Risk - as per English Heritages definition, generally buildings/structures which have major structural problems and a structural engineer's report should be provided. Buildings or structures on English Heritage's or Harrogate Borough Council's schedule of Listed Buildings and Ancient Monuments At Risk will be give the highest priority.