Exciting plans to transform Boston town centre and regenerate its historic buildings are moving forward.
The refurbishment and repair of properties, the replacement of shopfronts, the restoration of historic features, and the installation of new signage are just some of the improvements that are now underway.
They are being delivered through both the Boston Town Deal and the Boston Townscape Heritage Initiative, funded by the government and the National Lottery Heritage Fund respectively.
These improvements are being delivered through a grant aid scheme, led by Heritage Lincolnshire, for business owners to invest in their properties. This was launched in the spring to strong demand from local proprietors.
This builds on the NLHF funded Townscape Heritage project, which has delivered projects such as 16 Market Place and Crumbs, Dolphin Lane.
Physical improvements to public spaces are also planned to be carried out in partnership between Boston Borough Council and Lincolnshire County Council. These works – which are funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund, Lincolnshire County Council, and Boston Town Deal – will create a consistent appearance between Dolphin Lane and the Market Place.
The plans aim to create a more attractive environment, increase footfall into the town, and ultimately will help to make Boston an even better place to live, work and visit.
Both grant schemes have now been launched and they are being delivered across Boston Town Centre.
Our town centre is rich in heritage, and through this project, we are able to restore and refurbish buildings of historic value and bring in new improvements, including to signage and public realm.
It is fantastic to hear that there has been such keen interest so far in both grant schemes, and I am grateful to all the businesses who have signed up so far and who are playing such an important role in restoring and enhancing our town centre.
As a result of this work, Boston town centre will be more appealing for residents, visitors, and businesses, and will offer an improved experience for all.
Neil KempsterChair of Boston Town Deal
Boston is proud of its heritage so it is fantastic that the council and the Town Deal is helping to improve some of our most historically important buildings.
These improvements in the town centre will not only improve the street scene and encourage pride for where we live and work, they will make it an even more welcoming place for visitors. I look forward to seeing the work progress and the impact these improvements will make on footfall for the town.
Paul SkinnerLeader of Boston Borough Council
After the launch of the Healing the High Street scheme earlier on this year, we are delighted that it has witnessed high demand and a warm reception from business owners.
The support of Boston Borough Council and Lincolnshire County Council for the town’s unique heritage has been instrumental in allowing the scheme to move forward at pace. This scheme will deliver real and lasting change for Boston’s town centre and I would encourage business owners in the town centre to come forward and work with us to develop schemes that secure their buildings for future generations.
Matt BentleySenior Manager (Conservation and Heritage) at Heritage Lincolnshire
Business owners interested in finding out more about the grant aid schemes should get in touch with Heritage Lincolnshire as soon as possible: towndeals@heritagelincolnshire.org)