The project, which is now in its second year, is urging the owners of eligible buildings to apply for funds to help with repair and restoration work and for improvements to shop fronts.

The grants are aimed at key historic buildings in the High Street, part of West Street, John Street, The Square and Bridge Street. Funding to meet up to 75% of the cost of repairs and restoration is available, which could include stone repairs and replacement, roof repairs, window repairs or replacement and the restoration of lost architectural features. Shop front improvement grants are also available – again, for up to 75% of the cost of work on eligible properties.

The Penicuik scheme is similar to conservation improvements carried out in Dalkeith and Gorebridge over the past few years, where owners were also able to benefit from grant funding.

Mel Scrimgeour is the owner of Newbyres Hall, a key historic building in Gorebridge which benefited from a grant to restore and convert the property.

Mel said: “I was able to take advantage of the Gorebridge grant scheme to repair and restore Newbyres Hall into a much needed nursery for local residents. The project has not only saved an interesting old building in Gorebridge but it has benefited the local community and provided local employment.”

She added: “It has become so successful that we were able to acquire Struthers Church opposite, to extend the facility and provide an after school club as well as additional nursery space.”

The Penicuik Heritage Regeneration Projects is a partnership between the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, Midlothian Council, the Penicuik Community Development Trust, Penicuik First and Penicuik and District Community Council. The five-year project will last until August 2023.