Local owners of heritage-listed buildings can now apply for financial assistance towards specific restoration and conservation works as part of the Heritage Grants Program which is now open.
The program includes Heritage Building Grants and Heritage Publication Grants.
Georges River Council Mayor Kevin Greene said the Georges River area has more than 300 historically significant properties listed in Local Environmental Plans which showcase a diverse range of architectural heritage.
“Council’s support of owners, and of historical research into local heritage, is an important part of securing the future of heritage items in the local area,” he said.
“Local heritage listing of individual heritage items is for the benefit of our community as it provides a visual representation of development trends in the locality over time, and deepens our community identity and sense of place.”
Under the Heritage Building Grants Program, private owners of heritage listed items will be able to apply for grants between $100 and $10,000, with matched funding allocated on a dollar for dollar basis.
Examples of previous projects supported under the program include the removal of paintwork to reveal original sandstone and restorative work to windows.
Applications will be managed and assessed by Council’s Strategic Planning experts in conjunction with Council’s Heritage Advisor, who will assist in assessing and recommending project applications for funding.
Under the Heritage Publications program, historians, writers and researchers working on publications relevant to the history and development of the Georges River Council area will be able to apply for up to $5,000 towards the costs of research and publication of works.
Grant programs are an effective means of promoting conservation values to the community, and provide an opportunity for Council and the community to work in partnership to preserve and promote the rich history of our local area.
The closing date for publications and submissions is Friday, August 17.
For more information, visit www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au or call 9330 6400.