Chance for local groups to get funding

Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust (PKHT) has launched a new Community Heritage Grant Fund and is inviting applications from local groups.

The aim of the fund is to support community projects which conserve or enhance the historic environment of Perth and Kinross.

The trust is hoping to give financial support to projects which fall into either of the following categories:

• Conservation of historic buildings or monuments in Perth and Kinross that have established and generally unhindered public access.

• Community based recording, research and interpretation of the historic environment in Perth and Kinross

Maggie Wilkins, chair of the board of trustees, said:“The trust recognises how difficult it is for community groups to access funding for heritage projects.

“We are keen to assist groups in their efforts to deliver local heritage initiatives across Perth and Kinross and have designated £65,000 towards a Community Heritage Grant Fund.

“Through this fund we hope to support at least 15 eligible projects over the next two years.”

PKHT is inviting applications for grants of up to £5000 although larger sums may be considered in exceptional circumstances; a minimum award has not been set.

Applications will be considered twice a year with the intention of committing up to £20,000 at each session until the fund is expended. Initial deadlines for the receipt of applications are: July 31, 2021, January 31, 2022, and July 31, 2022.

Potential applicants are asked to check their eligibility before applying and to note that the fund is intended to support projects developed by community-based organisations or are for community benefit. Applications for domestic or commercial properties are unlikely to be eligible.

The trust hopes to support a variety of small heritage projects over the whole of Perth and Kinross and invites potential applicants to contact PKHT to discuss their project as early as possible in its development.

An application form, guidelines and conditions can be found at www.pkht.org. uk/communityheritagegrants