Council praises ‘successful’ work done in Grantham Heritage Action Zone Programme as it nears completion

The district council has praised the “successful” work done in a bid to preserve Grantham’s heritage, as the project nears its completion.

South Kesteven District Council’s Culture and Leisure Overview and Scrutiny Committee were updated on the latest on the Grantham Heritage Action Zone Programme yesterday (Thursday).

Councillor Richard Cleaver (Dem Ind, Stamford St John’s), leader of SKDC, told councillors that the programme had been a “successful project over the four years” and it was “now coming to a conclusion”.

Grantham’s High Street Heritage Action Zone programme aims to protect ‘at risk’ parts of the town centre, and funding provided has seen several historic properties restored in the town.

Coun Cleaver told the committee that four elements of the project were “under delivery”, with two to begin around Christmas.

The restoration of Westgate Hall, which received £300,000 to cover urgent repairs and other necessary improvements, was “progressing well”.

There was a slight delay with Westgate Hall due to delivery of roof lights, however work is now continuing on schedule.

Coun Cleaver said 71 High Street, the former Grantham Burtons store, was “significantly behind schedule” due to delays, and that the delay may result in added cost.

However, this added cost would be met by the owner.

Councillor Chris Noon (Ind, Grantham Harrowby) praised the “fantastic” heritage days - held in September of this year - and Grantham Dramatic Society’s involvement.

Coun Noon questioned if there was potential for “engagement” with GDS to continue.

Coun Cleaver said that the programme was “all about creating something that is ongoing” and that “part of the jigsaw” was to “make sure Grantham’s culture thrives” after the programme is complete.

Claire Saunders, High Street Heritage Action Zone Project manager, added that the intention was to “continue to deliver elements of this work beyond the programme”.