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Comhairle nan Eilean Siar > Planning and Building Standards > Planning Policy and Guidance > Building Conservation Grants Schemes

Building Conservation Grants Schemes

The long term protection and enhancement of the historic environment is an important part of the Comhairle’s commitment to this aspect of its heritage.  The Comhairle administer grant schemes which operate in the four conservation areas.

Conservation Area Grant Scheme

The Conservation Area grant offers an intervention rate of 50% up to a maximum of £3,000 per application.  Details of the scheme and information on eligibility and how to apply can be found in the Conservation Area Grant Guidance Notes.

Before completing an Application Form you are advised to check the eligibility of your project and availability of grant funds.  There is also an opportunity to discuss the requirements with the relevant officer.  In addition, we can often help in sourcing traditional material supplies or details of specialist contractor which can save you time and effort.

Stornoway Town Centre Painting Grant Scheme

A separate grant is available for painting buildings in central Stornoway.  As the major gateway to the Outer Hebrides it is important to create a good impression for residents and visitors alike.

The scheme is restricted to the Focus Area of the Stornoway Conservation Area – essentially the town centre.

Essential facts

  • The scheme is directed at assisting the painting of whole facades of buildings.
  • There is an intervention rate of 75% up to a maximum of £3,000.
  • Paint types and colours will be subject to approval.
  • In some cases planning consent will be required.

The Stornoway Painting Scheme Guidance Notes provides more details on eligibility and how to apply.

The Application Form can be downloaded but in keeping with advice for the other grant scheme we welcome informal discussion on all potential grant applications prior to formal submission of an application.

Contacting the appropriate officer to discuss your proposals before completing an application form will help avoid delays with your application.

To discuss your project proposals and for more information on both schemes listed above contact Susan Rabé, Planning Officer, Council Offices, Stornoway or email srabe@cne-siar.gov.uk

Thatched Buildings Grant Scheme

Thatched Buildings North Uist

A grant is available to assist with the repair of traditional thatched roofs.

This grant is no longer administered by the Comhairle on behalf of Historic Environment Scotland

The grant for thatched buildings now comes under the Historic Environment Grants Programme and further information about the grant and how to apply can be found on Historic Environment Scotland’s Website