The National Lottery Heritage Fund has unveiled a £10 million investment package for seven built heritage projects across the UK, placing historic preservation at the centre of local community regeneration.

By transforming long-vacant or at-risk buildings into vibrant community hubs, the funding aims to drive economic growth and pass on traditional construction skills to a new generation of workers.

Since its inception 30 years ago, the fund has invested £3.4 billion into more than 10,600 historic structures. These latest grants continue that mission, specifically targeting the revitalisation of high streets and city centres.

London: Newham and Barking & Dagenham Lead Renewal

In Newham, a £2.7 million grant will facilitate the transformation of the Grade II listed Canning Town Old Library into a permanent heritage centre for the borough. The project will provide a first-time permanent home for Newham’s archive and museum collections, showcasing previously inaccessible artefacts that span over 600 years of history.

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Further east, investment in Barking and Dagenham will kick-start the council’s new Culture and Heritage Strategy. Co-created with local residents, the initiative aims to celebrate the borough’s industrial and social heritage, ensuring that historical landmarks are sustained for future generations while fostering a sense of local pride.

Northern England: Grimsby Department Store Restoration

In the North of England, a £62,000 grant has been awarded to progress the repair of the former House of Fraser department store in Grimsby. The project focuses on protecting at-risk heritage skills by supporting the community in saving their built environment. The funding will enable detailed architectural plans and community activities to explore the architectural evolution of the iconic building.

Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “Understanding how communities feel about their heritage is vital to meaningful regeneration, and we’re proud to invest in exceptional places where historic buildings will be restored and repurposed for everyone to enjoy.”

Investment Across Scotland

The programme also features substantial backing for Scottish projects, including a £2.3 million grant for Glasgow’s Sauchiehall Street Cultural and Heritage District. This funding will help preserve the McLellan Galleries for use by creative groups such as Glasgow Film and the Scottish Ensemble.

Other Scottish projects receiving support include:

• The redevelopment of Airdrie Library, home to the UK’s smallest public observatory.

• The restoration of quayside buildings and historic homes in Tarbert.

• A comprehensive programme of restoration and community heritage events in Girvan.

The Heritage Fund noted that these investments not only preserve the physical fabric of the UK's history but also ensure that these landmarks remain functional, sustainable, and economically beneficial for modern residents.