New round of grants to help repair historic buildings in Renfrewshire villages

Historic buildings across Renfrewshire villages are set for further restoration, as Council launches new round of funding to support essential maintenance and repairs. 

Following the success of the initial round in 2023, and with the benefit of additional Council investment, the Historic Buildings in Villages Grants scheme has now reopened with improvements to make funding even more accessible for owners. 

There are three types of grants available to assist owners of buildings constructed before 1945 to maintain and repair their properties in line with heritage conservation standards. 

The Maintenance Planning Grant now covers up to 90% of eligible costs, to a maximum of £1,500, helping owners commission a conservation-accredited advisor to survey their property and prepare a costed maintenance plan. 

There are also two repair grants: 

• a Small Repairs Grant covering up to 60% of eligible costs for repairs between £3,000 and £8,000, 
• a Standard Repairs Grant up to 50% of eligible costs for repairs over £8,000 up to a maximum award of £25,000. 

Councillor Andy Steel, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, said: 
“Our villages are home to some of Renfrewshire’s most treasured historic buildings. We’re delighted to offer a second round of funding to help owners protect and invest in these important places, preserving the unique character of our communities for generations to come. 

“We are committed to helping people take pride in where they live. Supporting the maintenance and repair of historic buildings not only protects our heritage but strengthens the identity and vibrancy of our village communities.” 

The scheme remains open to private owners across 11 villages: Bishopton, Bridge of Weir, Brookfield, Crosslee, Elderslie, Houston, Howwood, Inchinnan, Kilbarchan, Langbank and Lochwinnoch. 

Priority will continue to be given to buildings within village centres, listed properties, and properties within the conservation areas of Bridge of Weir, Houston, Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch. 

Applications for the Maintenance Planning Grant are open until Thursday 26 June 2025, while the deadline for Small and Standard Repairs Grant applications is Thursday 9 October 2025. 

This new funding round builds on the success of previous initiatives, including two Townscape Heritage and Conservation Area Regeneration Schemes which helped repair and transform many historic buildings and public spaces in Paisley town centre, and adds to over £620,000 already invested in village projects through Renfrewshire’s Villages Investment Fund. 

Find out more information on historic building grants on Renfrewshire Council’s website.