Wellingborough to receive £1.5m regeneration boost

Development funding of £50,000 was awarded to help progress plans for the next stage of the project.

The earmarked¹ money will help fund the repair of historic buildings throughout the town centre including the Grade II* listed Golden Hind Hotel, a 1645 coaching inn, and the former club house of the Royal Antediluvian Order of the Buffaloes (RAOB)2.

Many of the most prominent buildings are currently lying vacant, which in turn has eroded the historic character of the market town. The restoration of the townscape will act as a catalyst for further investment in the growth area.

This investment is part of the HLF's Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) which has invested nearly £200m since 1998 into regenerating towns that have suffered serious social and economic decline.

Emma Sayer, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund East Midlands, said:

"The Heritage Lottery Fund is proud to be playing a key role in helping to revitalise Wellingborough.  The restoration of the town's historic buildings and townscape should make a real difference in encouraging local businesses and visitors back to the town centre."

Councillor Lora Lawman, Chair of Wellingborough Council's Development Committee said:

"This is fantastic news and I'm absolutely delighted that our officers were able to secure the funding on behalf of the council. It will make such a difference to Wellingborough as it will be used to enhance, and repair where necessary, the protected heritage in our borough."

Wellingborough began life as a small Saxon market town expanding significantly over the years.  Its early origins are still visible today with medieval streets surrounding All Hallows Church and Market Place, but the town centre has declined in more recent times, which has put its historic character at risk.

This investment is part of the HLF's Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) which has invested over £250m since 1998 into regenerating towns that have suffered serious social and economic decline.

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Notes to Editors

 ¹ A Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) earmarked first-round pass means that money has been set aside by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for the scheme in question. Competition at this stage is tough, and while it does not guarantee funding, it is an indication of positive support. The applicants can then progress to the second round and submit a further, fully-developed application to secure the full award. On occasion, development funding will also be awarded at the first round. This early level of strong financial commitment means that THIs can build strong partnerships with the assurance that funding for their scheme is in place provided their final proposals fully meet the programme criteria.

 2 The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB) is a Fraternal, Benevolent and Social Organisation in the United Kingdom. It is open to any male over the age of 18, provided he is a "true and loyal supporter of the British Crown and Constitution" and he "enters of his own free will and consent". The organisation aids members, their families, those left behind by deceased brethren (widows/orphans) and other charitable organisations. During the 19th century, via the British Empire, the Order spread throughout the British Commonwealth

 Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage.  HLF has supported 33,900 projects, allocating £4.4billion across the UK.  Website: http://www.hlf.org.uk/