The Townscape Heritage Initiative is a three year programme of grants to improve the quality of the built environment of this historic area.
Merchant City Townscape Heritage Initiative
Funded by Glasgow City Council, Scottish Enterprise and the Heritage Lottery Fund this £3 million grant scheme is aimed at owners of historic buildings within a designated area of the Merchant City (map pop up.htm) and is intended to meet the 'conservation deficit' on projects in the area - i.e. the grant will meet the difference between the cost of works (minus any other grant income) and the uplift in value of the project on completion.
The purpose of the initiative is not only to upgrade the appearance of historic buildings however. Strong, contemporary design will also be encouraged and the THI is one of a series of levers that seek to improve the physical and also the economic and social conditions of this part of the city - so that it can once again succeed as a retail, cultural and residential centre, with an emphasis on an energetic mixed use economy, a safe and attractive residential environment, and independent shops and small businesses with an identity and style of their own.
THI Grant Guidance
Applications for grant are now closed
Phase 1
Phase 1 of the scheme was successfully completed in 2005 with a grant ‘pot’ of £3m levering in over £30m of development in the area from the restoration of the Medieval Tron Steeple, numerous retail frontages and extensive public realm works. View a full run down on the projects here.
Phase 1 pdf
Phase 2
Phase 2 of the scheme running from 2007-11 is concentrating on the key sectors of the arts and the creative industries and on creating the conditions for these enterprises to flourish and bring employment, diversity and footfall.
Phase 2 pdf