First Townscape Heritage Initiative projects under way in Kirkwall

December 2, 2015 at 2:41 pm

Katie and David Foulis outside 18 Bridge Street, Kirkwall. — Katie and David Foulis outside 17 Bridge Street, Kirkwall.

The first business to receive Kirkwall Townscape Heritage Initiative (KTHI) support has begun renovation work at 17 Bridge Street.

The grant is helping the owners to provide a major overhaul of the 18th century, B listed property — the former John Scott & Miller shop.

The work to the building will include substantial roof and chimney works, lime harling, painting, new windows and doors, reinstating some of the historic details of the original building.

Property owners David and Katie Foulis are delighted that works have begun after several months of hard work to bring the project forward.

Mr Foulis said: “To have R. Clouston Ltd start work on site is a huge step forward for this major project. We are hoping to have works completed and be open for business by April 2016 when we will be selling outdoor clothing, including bikes and cycling equipment.”

Richard Ritch, the KTHI project manager, said: “We are delighted that this prominent, empty building is going to be brought back into use, and this part of the town centre is a focus for investment again. Two smaller building projects are also on site with another one already completed.

“We are currently processing about 30 other applications so there will be more works on site very soon, and there will be another opportunity for people to apply for funding in January 2016.”

Launched in 2014, the KTHI is a £3.425m project, funded by Orkney Islands Council, Historic Scotland and the Heritage Lottery Fund, to regenerate the Kirkwall town centre, and runs until 2019.

Under the scheme, grants will be made available within the Kirkwall Conservation Area for: