The Helensburgh Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) 2021-2026 offers funding to help property owners repair buildings and shopfronts within a defined CARS Boundary within Helensburgh Town Centre Conservation Area.

Funded by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and Argyll and Bute Council, the scheme has prioritised four priority buildings for major repair.

In each case, the property owners will be encouraged to take up the offer of grant and will be responsible for the work. The properties are located in Colquhoun Street, East Clyde Street and West Clyde Street area.

In addition to the priority buildings, property owners can now apply for a Small Repairs Grant. Funding is available for repairs to:

• Roofs
• Chimneys
• Leadwork
• Rainwater goods
• Doors and windows.

For shopfronts within the grant area, funding is also available for the reinstatement of traditional features and shopfront detail.

The project also seeks to enhance local skills by facilitating training on traditional materials and methods of repair, and to host events that celebrate Helensburgh’s heritage.

Councillor Robin Currie, policy lead for the economy and rural growth, said: “Helensburgh CARS is a welcome boost to regeneration works already happening in the town including the Waterfront Development Project. We have seen first-hand, the positive benefits heritage-led projects bring to towns. Breathing new life into buildings opens up business and employment opportunities, attracting more people to live in and visit the area.”

A competition to create a logo for Helensburgh CARS recently attracted over 40 entries. Argyll and Bute Council has congratulated Abbey Redding from Lomond School for her winning design.