Building Conservation Grant Schemes

The Narrows, Stornoway

The Narrows, Stornoway

The long term protection and enhancement of the historic environment is an important part of the Comhairle’s commitment to this aspect of its heritage. The Comhairle administer grant schemes which operate in the four conservation areas and a scheme that applies to thatched buildings.

Conservation Area Scheme

The Conservation Area grant offers an intervention rate of 50% up to a maximum of £3,000 per application. Details of the scheme and information on eligibility and how to apply can be found in the Conservation Area Grant Guidance Notes (305.4kB) (Opens in a new window or downloads a file).

Before completing an Application Form you are advised to check the eligibility of your project and availability of grant funds.  This is also an opportunity to discuss the requirements with the relevant officer.  In addition we can often help in sourcing traditional material supplies or details of specialist contractors which can save you time and effort.

Application Forms

Online Conservation Area Application Form

Conservation Area Application Form (PDF) (285.5kB)

Conservation Area Application Form (Word) (28.4kB)

Stornoway Painting Scheme

A separate grant is available for painting buildings in central Stornoway. As the major gateway to the Outer Hebrides it is important to create a good impression for residents and visitors alike.

The scheme is restricted to the Focus Area (271.2kB) (Opens in a new window or downloads a file) of the Conservation Area – essentially the town centre.

The Town House, Stornoway

The Town House, Stornoway

Essential facts:

  • The scheme is directed at assisting the painting of whole facades of buildings.
  • There is an intervention rate of 75% up to a maximum of £3,000
  • Paint types and colours will be subject to approval.
  • In some cases planning consent may be required.

The Stornoway Painting Scheme Guidance Notes (222.2kB) (Opens in a new window or downloads a file) give more details on eligibility and how to apply.

The Application Form can be downloaded but in keeping with advice for other grant schemes we welcome informal discussion on all potential grant applications prior to formal submission of an application.  Contacting the appropriate officer to discuss your proposals before completing an application form will help avoid delays with your application.

To discuss your project proposal and for more information on both schemes listed above contact Susan Rabé, Planning Officer, Council Offices, Stornoway. Tel 01851 822690 or email srabe@cne-siar.gov.uk

Application Forms

Online Stornoway Painting Scheme Application Form

Stornoway Painting Scheme Application Form (PDF) (202.8kB) (Opens in a new window or downloads a file)

Stornoway Painting Scheme Application Form (Word) (32.9kB) (Opens in a new window or downloads a file)

Thatched Buildings Grant Scheme

Thatched buildings, Berneray

Thatched buildings, Berneray

A grant is available to assist with the repair of traditional thatched roofs.

Details on the grant and eligibility can be viewed in the Thatched Building Guidance Notes (112.5kB) (Opens in a new window or downloads a file) .

An Application Form (257.3kB) (Opens in a new window or downloads a file) can be downloaded but it is advised to check eligibility and availability of grant funds before you apply.

For more information contact Hannah Morrison, Planning Officer, Council Offices, Balivanich.  Tel 01870 604990 or email hmorrison@cne-siar.gov.uk