A new charity aims to save heritage buildings across Nottingham – as well as preserving and restoring those in disrepair.
The City of Nottingham Historic Buildings Limited (CoNHBL) has been created to preserve buildings which are in poor condition – including listed buildings and parks.
The CoNHBL has secured funding from the Architectural Heritage Fund and a grant from the National Lottery Heritage fund – with help from Nottingham City Council – to look at new uses for the grade II Listed Bulwell Hall Stables. The long-term aim is to preserve the stables and save the building from vandalism.
Chair of the CoNHBL board of trustees, Peter Ellis, said: “We are pleased to announce the registration of the charity. It has been set up tackle heritage at risk in the city and find new futures for old buildings for the benefit of the public.
“The trustees of the new charity are already developing plans to protect and conserve a number of historic buildings in the city and want to hear from the public about their hopes and fears for Nottingham’s heritage.
“The charity has a really important part to play in terms of Nottingham’s past, present and future. The charity is dedicated to preserving important monuments across the city.”
The charity aims to preserve heritage monuments, registered parks and gardens, historic buildings in conservation areas and locally listed heritage assets will also come under its influence.
CoNHBL has also been working with Nottingham City Council to find a future for the grade II star listed People’s Hall in Heathcoat Street, Hockley, with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Often being described as one of Nottingham’s ‘hidden gems’, The People’s Hall located in the Lace Market conservation area, is on the Listed Buildings at Risk Register.
It was built in 1750 and is one of the rare examples of an 18th century gentleman’s townhouse. It was built by 18th century city businesswoman Ann Morley, who also lived at the house.
With a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, building repairs will be carried out to the historic building as well as helping to secure a long-term financially sustainable use for it.
Peter added: “We would like to thank the support of the Charity Commission, Nottingham City Council, the Heritage Trust Network, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Architectural Heritage Fund and Historic England – through the Nottingham Heritage Action Zone- in helping us form the charity.”
The charity will use Heritage at Risk registers to identify projects as well as working in partnership with Nottingham City Council, Historic England, Nottingham Civic Society and the public. It aims to promote heritage skills and conservation in the city by encouraging the public to participate in their projects.
