A £6m nationwide project has been launched to unlock untapped potential in areas that are rich in heritage, bringing historic places back to life to attract residents, tourists, businesses and investors, and create economic growth in villages, towns and cities across England.
Historic England has announced the first ten places to receive funding over the next three-to-five years. Through the drive, listed buildings that have been neglected will be restored and brought back into use as housing, retail or community spaces; conservation areas improved to kick start regeneration; and historic sites developed as visitor attractions.
The Heritage Action Zones are in: Appleby; Coventry; Elsecar; Hull Old Town; King's Lynn; Nottingham (pictured); Ramsgate; Sunderland; Sutton; and Weston-super-Mare.
The project will see Historic England support local authorities through grant funding, training and sharing skills. For example, the public body will equip councils to spot heritage potential, restore neglected places and ensure new developments reflect local character and identity.
Heritage Action Zones are included in The Culture White Paper which was published last year.
Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said: "Through Heritage Action Zones we are providing help where it's needed most. England's rich heritage is one of our greatest capital assets and it's time to use it to bring about positive change in our communities.
"The historic environment offers people a sense of place, a sense of pride and a sense of belonging - and it helps millions earn a living in this country. Everyone should have a share in its potential."
Historic England plans to award Heritage Action Zone status to more towns, cities and villages over the next two years. Applications will open again in May 2017.
