PA reopens scheme to restore scheduled building outside UCA
Applications close July 9 or possibly earlier
The Planning Authority reopened a scheme on Thursday to restore scheduled buildings located outside Urban Conservation Areas.
Those applying for Grade 1 buildings - the highest level of protection granted by planning laws - can receive up to €100,000, while Grade 2 buildings can receive up to €50,000.
In cases of multiple ownership, each co-owner may benefit from funding of up to €15,000, but consolidated applications qualify for the maximum grant available under the scheme, the PA said in a statement.
Following the earlier call issued this year, €1 million remains available to support the restoration of some of Malta's most significant built heritage, it said.
The scheme can be used for the restoration of façades, the repair of traditional timber apertures, stonework conservation and other restoration works approved by the Planning Authority.
The aim is to financially support conservation and restoration works that preserve the architectural integrity and historic character of these buildings, in line with established conservation principles.
Planning Minister Jonathan Attard said the government is committed to protecting Malta's built heritage.
“This investment reflects the government’s continued commitment to safeguarding Malta’s cultural heritage while supporting property owners in carrying out high-quality restoration projects that will benefit present and future generations,” Attard said.
PA executive chairperson Johann Buttigieg said the scheme encourages more property owners to invest in the careful restoration of structures that form an integral part of Malta's cultural identity.
Interested applicants must first register their expression of interest through the Planning Authority's online portal.
They will then have to submit documentation, including details of the proposed works.
Applications will be assessed against the established eligibility criteria and processed in the order in which they are received, with funding allocated until the available budget has been exhausted.
Further information, including the eligibility criteria, the registration process and the application procedure, is available on the Planning Authority's website.
Expressions of Interest opened on Thursday at 9am and will close at 9am on July 9, or possibly earlier if the available funds are fully allocated.
Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and late submissions will not be considered.