Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, left, and Moree Plains Shire Council’s Director of Planning and Development Angus Witherby pictured outside Moree’s Gossip Corner, as it was being restored to its former glory and converted into the new 61 Balo Café.
Monday, 20 February 2017
WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN WITH $4 MILLION TO CONSERVE LOCAL HERITAGE
MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall is encouraging owners and managers of local heritage properties to consider applying for more than $4 million in State Government funding for local conservation projects.
Last year’s program saw Moree’s Gossip Corner receive a $15,500 facelift, which has resulted in a new and well-presented café establishing – 61 Balo – and this year, an additional funding program is now available.
Mr Marshallsaid the grants were designed to help communities rejuvenate and conserve their local heritage.
“Heritage items are essential for maintaining the culture and identity of a town,” Mr Marshall said.
“Unfortunately, age, weather and changing urban development can wreak havoc on our heritage. The state government is helping communities turn back the clock, ensuring these buildings and places can be accessed and enjoyed by future generations.
“I would urge all owners and managers of heritage items, councils, businesses, not-for-profit organisations and industry associations to consider applying for funding.”
There are two heritage funding programs open for application:
- $2.67 million in funding is available under the second round of Heritage Activation Grants program – this program aims to make heritage more accessible, and is open to owners and managers of local heritage items listed on their council’s Local Environmental Plan;
- $2 million is available under the first round of the Local Heritage Strategic Projects Program – proposed projects can include conservation and repair work, the development of heritage management, strategy and policy plans and projects developed to specifically raise community awareness, knowledge and understanding of local heritage
Heritage Minister Gabrielle Upton said these programs were designed to build on the knowledge and connection communities have with their heritage.
“Communities know their heritage better than anyone – these NSW Government grants will help bring local heritage back to life,” Ms Upton said.
Applications under the Local Heritage Strategic Projects Program are open all year round subject to available funding. Applications under the Heritage Activation program close on Monday, 21 April 2017.
For more information visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/Heritage/heritage-near-me-incentives.htm