As part of wider efforts in the city to ‘build back better’ post-COVID-19, the charity is issuing a call to residents to share their suggestions for where future conservation work in the city should be focused.

Funding for the work will come from Edinburgh World Heritage’s Conservation Funding Programme which has been designed to enhance and protect the city’s World Heritage Site by:

• Undertaking vital conservation, repair and maintenance work throughout the city
• Promoting the use of traditional building skills and materials
• Improving the wellbeing of residents, owners, tenants and the wider community
• Providing a vital boost to the economy

The programme is supported financially by Historic Environment Scotland, with additional revenue from property owners and partner organisations.

Property owners and tenants – both residential and commercial – are invited to suggest individual buildings and neighbourhoods that they feel need attention by completing a simple feedback form. This input will enable informed decisions about where funds are needed most. Unlike in the past, Edinburgh World Heritage is asking residents to suggest neighbourhoods which require attention in addition to individual buildings.

Previous projects that have received grant aid from Edinburgh World Heritage include Well Court in Dean Village, key 17th century tenements in the Canongate, as well as many other houses and tenements. Commercial properties that have been conserved include Poundsavers on South Bridge and The Milkman on Cockburn Street – among 50 shops across the city.

Christina Sinclair, director of Edinburgh World Heritage, said: “The value of the Conservation Funding Programme lies in the positive impact it has on people, place and industry. Our team provide invaluable support to residents and owners from start to finish. The conservation work is carried out by highly-skilled architects and tradesmen men to ensure a high standard of workmanship, and the investment in jobs and materials provides a much-needed boost to the economy. We are therefore looking forward to hearing from members of the public about how this programme can support communities in the areas of greatest need.”

Cllr Neil Gardiner, planning convener, said: “Conservation work is so important to preserve our city’s heritage and make sure our historic buildings are well maintained. The city belongs to our residents and so I’m really pleased to see that our partner managing Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site is engaging with the public to help them prioritise where work is most needed so as a city we can make the most of the funds available.”

To find out more, and to submit your thoughts on the conservation work you want to see using our feedback form, please visit the charity’s funding and advice page.