RULES governing grants for maintaining listed buildings have been relaxed to enable more people to apply for them.
West Devon has more than 2,400 listed buildings from the grandest country houses and churches to humble thatched cottages.
Previously, under West Devon Borough Council's historic buildings grant scheme, applicants had to comply with a strict means test.
Now, following a decision by the council's strategic development committee, any private applicant paying tax at the lower rate and having lived in the property for three years or more may qualify for grant aid of up to 20 per cent towards structural repairs to a listed building.
Unlisted buildings of architectural or historic interest in conservation areas may also qualify under the scheme. The maximum grant has also been extended from £1,000 to £1,500.
Applications for grant aid this year can be made up until April 30 and these will be assessed and offers sent out in May.
For further information and application forms contact Nils White, conservation officer at WDBC in Tavistock, on 01822 813704.