A SUCCESSFUL redundant building grant scheme run by Devon Renaissance is urgently looking for new projects to support. The scheme has secured an additional £100,000 and is now seeking projects to fund across rural Devon — but applicants will have to act quickly. Simon Mallett, of Devon Renaissance, says potential projects should already be involved in the planning process. Mr Mallet said: 'We need to spend this additional money by February next year so we want projects which are more than ideas on the drawing board. 'We have approved some 20 projects under the Redundant Building Grant scheme so far, which are forecast to bring more than 50 full-time and 30 part-time jobs to the county. Our contribution is around £650,000 out of a total capital spend of some £2.75-million.' Grants of up to 25% of the project costs are available to bring old, disused or otherwise redundant buildings back into employment use, and can cover building works, installation of services, access and car parking, and for professional services. The buildings could be used as office premises, for manufacturing services, craft activities, warehousing or some tourism activities such as licensed premises, tearoom or cafes. The rule is the building must be used to create workspace and employment opportunities. Anyone interested in applying for a grant should contact the Redundant Building Grant team at Devon Renaissance on 01837 658643 or email [email protected]">[email protected] or more information can be found on the website
