Heritage Grant Fund to be expanded

Published on 30 September 2021

Whanganui’s heritage buildings have received a boost with an increase in Whanganui District Council’s Heritage Grant Fund.

The funding pool has increased from $100,000 annually to $250,000 annually, and the scope of the funding criteria has widened.

Owners of heritage buildings can now apply for funding support for professional services relating to seismic design and fire upgrades, and funding can be sought for council- and Crown-owned buildings which are in community use, as well as privately owned buildings outside the central city, subject to demonstrating substantial community benefit.

Scott Flutey, heritage advisor, said the changes were part of the council’s 2021 long-term plan, and had been approved by councillors at the full council meeting on 14 September 2021.

Scott Flutey said the increase in funding and scope reflects the fact that the government has shelved its Heritage Equip Fund.

“There have been a lot of requests from building owners for support through the Heritage Grant Fund. The council acknowledges its role in supporting the community to appropriately manage our built heritage.

“Whanganui has many heritage buildings that need work, now and in the years ahead.”

For projects up to $15,000, applicants can be considered for up to 80 per cent funding towards the total cost of the project; while for projects above $15,000, owners can apply for up to 50 per cent towards the total cost of the project.

There are three rounds each year for the Heritage Grant Fund. These are held in July–September, November–January and March–May.

For more information about the Heritage Grant Fund, visit the council’s Heritage Grant Fund page.