Posted on 24th Nov
Plans to restore old buildings in Newark town centre have taken another step forward.
The town has been has been awarded £275,000 from Historic England for its High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) programme to restore and unlock its heritage potential.
The HSHAZ is a Historic England initiative intended to breathe new life into town centres by revitalising old buildings and helping to regenerate a vibrant place for locals, businesses and visitors.
The programme was designed by Newark and Sherwood District Council and includes a package of interventions and projects that will help transform and restore disused and dilapidated buildings into new homes, shops, work places and community spaces, restoring local historic character and improve public realm.
Newark and Sherwood District Council worked closely with Historic England to propose projects spanning the entire medieval core of the town. This area ranges from the Castle area to the Market Place via the retail streets of Kirk Gate, Stodman Street and Middle Gate. Bridge Street, Carter Gate (as far as Beaumond Cross Junction/Portland Street), Castle Gate, Appleton Gate and the Wharfage were also identified.
Work will include surveys and appraisals of key heritage at risk within the above areas, including the Grade II listed former White Hart on the Market Place, the Grade II listed Corn Exchange and other buildings at risk.
The scheme will also provide an opportunity to replace and develop new quality shop fronts and restore residential space on the upper floors of buildings to reduce business rates.
A cultural programme has also been approved, which will provide an opportunity for all communities to take part in events, activities and learning.
Coun David Lloyd, leader of the district council, said: “Newark is a fine historic town with a compact medieval street network and a significant number of listed buildings.
“It is well known for the Church of St Mary Magdalene, Newark Castle, Newark Palace Theatre and the attractive Market Place. Our regeneration plans will revive and unlock the full potential of Newark’s historic high streets for everyone to enjoy and we are pleased to receive Historic England’s support.”
The £275,000 grant from Historic England towards the cultural-led regeneration plans will be match-funded with district council and private-sector funding.
Coun Roger Blaney, Planning Committee chairman at the district council, said: “This is brilliant news for the residents and businesses of Newark. The plans will improve the all-day offer in the town centre and support the local economy.
“The redevelopment of the Buttermarket earlier in 2020 is a taster for what’s to come and will act as a magnet for other shops and businesses. This funding will help refresh and enhance Newark’s architectural, historical and cultural heritage thus creating a vibrant economy for local people, businesses and visitors to enjoy.”
Hear more from Coun David Lloyd on the plans by watching: https://youtu.be/2YqPMlL2WCI.
