OWNERS of properties in Greater Shepparton within a Heritage Overlay are encouraged to apply for grants to assist in the conservation of these places for future generations to appreciate.
Greater Shepparton City Council in association with the Greater Shepparton Heritage Advisory Committee launched a Heritage Grants Program for the 2017/2018 financial year. This initial Heritage Grants Program was highly successful and is being expanded for the 2018/19 financial year.
The Heritage Grants Program seeks to promote good conservation practice (maintenance, preservation, reconstruction or restoration) works that improve the physical security or appearance of a place, whilst being respectful of the place’s significance.
The establishment of a Heritage Grants Program was a recommendation of the Greater Shepparton Heritage Advisory Committee and was endorsed by Council at the March 2017 Ordinary Council Meeting.
Greater Shepparton City Council Director Sustainable Development, Geraldine Christou said, “The Heritage Grants Program helps to secure the future of many of our heritage places and assists in ensuring our heritage is preserved for many generations to enjoy.
“The Heritage Grants Program complements the free heritage advisory service that council provides to all property owners, land developers, tradespeople in the building industry and owners of buildings in the Heritage Overlay.”
Grants of up to $5,000 are available on a $1 to $1 basis. The grants are paid as a reimbursement at the completion of works.
Eligible works generally do not include routine maintenance works, unless that maintenance ensures the longevity of a place’s significance. Eligible works may include works to restore missing physical elements, including verandah, parapet, awning and fence reinstatements (based on historic evidence) and works that ensure the physical security and improve longevity of significant elements of the place such as re-stumping, re-roofing, and replacing guttering, windows and doors, etc.
If you have any queries regarding the Heritage Grants Program, contact Council’s Building and Planning Department on 5832 9700.
