A new scheme to restore sections of the historic main street of Gorebridge is set to be launched.

The Gorebridge Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) will see almost £700,000 invested over the next five years in restoring historic properties and improvements.

The scheme will protect and preserve the historic character of the town by making grants and advice available to owners of selected properties to undertake work to roofs, stonework, gutters and downpipes, chimneys, windows and doors.

The Council is working in partnership with Historic Scotland and the Gorebridge Community Development Trust.

The scheme comprises of:

• Small grants for the repair of eligible buildings (1-53 Main Street, 2-60 Main Street and 13, 8,12, 19-23, 24-32 and 34 Hunterfield Road)



• Assistance for the repair and restoration of the priority project for the scheme, Newbyres Hall
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• Community engagement through providing training opportunities in traditional construction skills and through education programmes



• Public realm improvements adjacent to Newbyres Hall.

Councillor Jim Bryant, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: "I am delighted that the council has been able to partner with organisations including Historic Scotland to obtain funding towards improving the historic main street of Gorebridge.

"By improving the look of one of our oldest throughfares, we will be creating and supporting jobs in local businesses, helping local tradesmen improve their knowledge of the techniques needed to restore older buildings sensitively and hopefully attracting more tourists to Gorebridge."

Archie Pacey, Chair of the Gorebridge Community Development Trust added: "This is the official launch of the scheme and I hope that owners of the eligible buildings in the centre of the town will take advantage of the opportunity and apply for grant aid.

"Gorebridge still has many interesting historic buildings and the Main Street still retains some original features, it is important that we do all we can to conserve and enhance the character of the town. The education and training aspects of the scheme are also a key feature of the project and we will be looking at how this can be planned so that we can involve as many local people as possible."

The launch will be held on 10 October at the Gorebridge Development Trust's premises at 5.15pm.

(JP/CD)