Historic Building Grant Aid Scheme
Few would question the benefits of regular maintenance for their car and likewise the importance of regular maintenance of traditional buildings cannot be over-stated. However, just as important is that maintenance is undertaken in the appropriate materials and techniques. Poorly executed maintenance and repairs or those undertaken in inappropriate materials can result in long term and serious damage to historic buildings, which can be expensive, destructive and disruptive to remedy.
Some people today like to undertake maintenance work themselves but often are concerned that they do not have the knowledge and experience to use traditional methods of maintenance and repair. The Authority can advise on the availability of both local and national amenity groups such as the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings (external site, opens new window) and the Devon Earth Building Association who can provide owners with guidance and information leaflets. Also, courses in traditional repairs are available nationally and locally for all levels of experience and information on these can be provided.
Good maintenance routines can keep a building in good health but from time to time more substantial repairs will be necessary, when that occurs it may be possible to seek advice and financial assistance from the Authority.
The National Park Authority runs a Historic Buildings Grant Aid Scheme, (the Guidance Notes and Application Form can both be downloaded on the Grants page) which can help with the repair of historic buildings. Any building or structure within the National Park which is either included in the Dept. for Culture, Media and Sports List of Building of Special Architectural or Historic Interest (a Listed Building), or is considered by the Authority to be a building or structure of local historic or architectural interest is eligible. The grants are restricted to repairs, not general maintenance. They are not means tested, although as funds are limited, a system of priorities does apply. These focus on the importance of the historic fabric/building that is to be repaired and the condition of the building/structure - those at serious risk being given priority.
